Games controllers

ABSTRACT

A controller is disclosed, especially but not exclusively, for use in combination with an exercise apparatus. The controller comprises in one arrangement a handlebar assembly and one or more input devices, of at least one of the input device being responsive to movement of the handlebars. The controller may include a support such as a handlebar stem, and may provide output signals to a microprocessor in turn to control operation of a program running on the microprocessor.

This invention relates to an improved games controller for amicroprocessor controlled unit. This invention especially but notexclusively relates to an improved games controller for a microprocessorcontrolled unit for use in the home or in a gymnasium. It in particular,but not exclusively relates to a controller (or input/output device)which in combination with an exercise device produces control signalsindicative of a users, and the exercise devices, movements whenexercising and supply these signals to a microprocessor based unit andto apparatus for use with an exercise cycle or an ordinary roadworthybicycle or any exercise device.

Keeping fit and active is becoming an increasingly important part ofpeople's lifestyles. Some of the best forms of exercise for keeping fitinclude cycling, running and rowing as they make the exerciser workaerobically. This both works the major muscle groups and alsostrengthens the heart and lungs. The result is an increased level ofphysical well being.

With increasing demands being placed on people's lives due to work andthe family, it is often difficult to find the time to exerciseregularly. Also, for much of the year in many countries it may benecessary to exercise in the dark outside of working hours. This can beunpleasant and dangerous.

Current medical reports state that the rapid rise in childhood obesityhas been mirrored by an explosion of sedentary leisure pursuits forchildren such as computers, video games, and television watching.Reports also indicate that increased general activity and play ratherthan competitive sport and structured exercise seem to be moreeffective. Parents, however, tend to be content with their childrenstaying in the home playing computer games rather than being worriedabout their safety if playing outdoors.

As well as the pressures of work and family for adults the above pointsare as applicable to adults as to children. The level of fitness in thegeneral population in today's Western world is far removed from that ofour ancestors. One of the best healthy habits is a regular exerciseprogramme.

To meet the demand for increased exercise in an insecure, busy and oftenunscheduled lifestyle, a wide range of exercise apparatus has beendeveloped. The most popular of these are the exercise bicycle, thetreadmill and the rowing machine. These apparatus allow the user toperform the same range of movements as they would in the correspondingsport but in the warmth, safety and comfort of their home or gymnasium.In another arrangement, devices can be purchased that convert roadbicycles into an exercise bicycle by arranging for the rear wheel todrive a load against a resisting force such as a turbine or magneticbrake whilst the bicycle is held stationary on a support.

For maximum benefit in the shortest space of time it is recommended thatregular exercise consisting of twenty to thirty minutes at least threetimes very week is undertaken. As anyone who has regularly used anexercise bicycle or the like will know, these blocks of twenty minutescan be extremely tedious. Removing the interest provided by passingvaried terrain in varied weather outdoors the act of cycling or rowingis quite repetitive and boring.

As a direct consequence of this monotonous exercise it is thereforeoften difficult to maintain the required degree of motivation needed tocomplete regular exercise using the devices. This is especially the caseamongst the younger age groups where modern alternative pastimes such ascomputer gaming are now more popular.

In an effort to make the apparatus more interesting to use a variety ofextra features are sometimes provided by the manufacturer as an integralpart of the apparatus. In a simple case this may be a speed read-outwhich produces a number dependent upon the rate at which the userrows/pedals/runs and sometimes also on the resistive load provided bythe machine. Although these do provide some initial interest the noveltysoon wears off and the exerciser again looses interest.

In another alternative it is known to include a processor that variesthe load in accordance with a preset programme to make the exercise moreinteresting. These are dedicated exercise devices to which the processorforms an integral part. They are both expensive and bulky. They are alsoinflexible, as with the exception of very expensive top of the rangemodels they can not be programmed to alter the routines they provide.

An object of the present invention is to provide apparatus that not onlyrelieves much of the monotony associated with the use of such devicesbut one which also improves exercise efficiency, providing for upperbody exercise also. Further to provide a games controller withmulti-axis controllability, mimicking the controls of a bicycle, toprovide this to the user with realistic frames of reference.

According to a first aspect, the invention provides a controller for amicroprocessor based unit, the controller comprising:

-   a handlebar assembly which can be held by a user and which includes    one or more input devices adapted to generate input signals for    supply to a microprocessor based unit, at least one of the input    devices being responsive to movement of the handlebars by the user.

By providing a handlebar assembly which functions as a controller for amicroprocessor based unit it is possible to arrange for the control ofat least one parameter of a program operating on the unit by moving thehandlebars. This allows a user to play a game on a bicycle to which thehandlebars are attached at the same time as exercising on the bicycle.This will make use of the bicycle more attractive, particularly toyounger users.

The handlebar assembly may be attached to or form a physical part of thepiece of exercise apparatus on which the movements are to be performed.The support may therefore include a portion of handlebar stem adapted tobe received within or supported relative to a headtube of a bicycle.

It will be appreciated that the controller and the exercise apparatusmay be integrated as a single piece of equipment. However, theversatility provided by being able to attach a handlebar controller toany equipment will make the invention highly attractive in the leisuremarket.

The input devices may be removable from the handlebar and connectedthereto by one or more cables or other means. This allows the devices tobe positioned at various positions around a piece of exercise equipment.

The controller may further include a seat or saddle which can be satupon by a user and which includes one or more additional input devicesadapted to generate input signals for supply to the microprocessor basedunit, at least one of the input devices being responsive to forceapplied to the saddle by the user.

In an alternative, the controller may include a saddle cover thatincludes the additional input devices and is adapted to be fitted ontoan existing saddle. A further alternative providing a suspended,pivotable seat post device as per the handlebars.

It is most preferred that the input device comprises a set of handlebarsfor a bicycle or exercise bicycle. The input devices may be attached toor form an integral part of the handlebar assembly. Of course, ifdesired a user may operate the controller independently of a bicycle.

The handlebar assembly may comprise a set of handlebars attached to ahandlebar support so that the handlebars can move relative to thesupport. The support may be adapted to permit the secure mounting of thehandlebar assembly to a bicycle, an exercise bike, any exerciseequipment or any supporting means (providing a table or lap top mountfor game only use).

The controller may be attached to any supporting means, such as a tabletop mounting bracket. It is further retrospectively attachable to anypiece of exercise equipment, from stationary exercise bicycles(including uprights, recumbent, manual resistance, automatic resistance,etc) to roadworthy bicycles modified to behave as stationary exercisebicycles (i.e. Trainers as referred to above) and to all other types ofexercise equipment (e.g. Rowing machines, Stair Climbing Machines,Treadmills, Cross Country Ski machines, Elliptical Trainers, etc.).Prior art in this field are only attachable to either an exercise bike,a customised exercise bike or only to a Trainer, none can attach toboth. This allows for greater economies of scale, making it cheaper forthe customer.

For example, if fitting the device to a Trainer, the stem of my gamescontroller simply replaces the stem of the real bicycle, a bracket onthe stem of my games controller is supplied as a mounting to hold thereal bars and controls in place while using the Trainer interactivelyand wires/other means connect from this main body to the remoteinput/output devices removably attached, by Bracket, Snap On, Velcro,Cable Tie or whatever means, to the Trainer. As a further example, iffitting my games controller to a stationary exercise bicycle, again theuser need only remove the old bars and attach the system's bars to thebicycle via a bespoke/general adapter, which attaches to the existingbicycles handlebar support/stem and accepts the stem of my gamescontroller. Again wires/other means connect this main body to the remoteinput/output devices removably attached to the bicycle.

At least one of the input devices may be adapted to produce an outputsignal responsive to the relative movement between the handlebar and thesupport. For example, the handlebars may be adapted to rotate relativeto the support about at least one axis. This is preferably an axis inthe plane of the handlebars so that the user may rotate the handlebarsto simulate turning a corner. This may be a vertical axis located atsubstantially the centre of the support when in use.

The handlebars may further be adapted to move up and down (forward andbackward) relative to the support in a plane substantially orthogonal tothat for left/right rotation. An input device may be provided whichproduces an output indicative of the up/down movement of the bars. Inuse this may be a substantially vertical axis. The user may thereforepush/pull the bars away from/towards him to simulate the shifting ofweight on the bars.

Furthermore, the handlebars may be adapted to rotate about a third axisthat is perpendicular to the first two axes. This allows the user tomove the bars to simulate the leaning of a bicycle or other exercisedevice. The assembly may therefore be adapted to rotate about an axis inthe plane of the handlebars so that the user may rotate the handlebarsto simulate turning a corner. This may be a vertical axis located atsubstantially the centre of the support when in use. In the followingdescription the x, y and z axes are from the perspective of looking intothe z-axis with the handlebars if front of you, x-horizontal andy-vertical.

Furthermore, the handlebars may be adapted to move linearly along fourthand fifth axes. This allows the user to move the bars to simulate thelifting up or pushing down the front wheel or sidestepping of a bicycleor other exercise device. All are described further below.

Turn Left/Right (Steer) Devices—Control About Y-axis,

Specifically, the handlebars provide for such left/right turning(substantially about the y-axis). An input device may be providedproducing a signal indicative of the left/right movement of the bars,simulating steering in a cycle. Specifically, this provides forrealistic control of any object in a 3D world—ROTATIONALLY ABOUT Y AXIS.

Weight Forward/Backward (Pitch) Devices—Control About X-axis,

The handlebars may further be adapted to lean forward and backwardrelative to the support (substantially about the x-axis). A furtherinput device may be provided which produces an output indicative of theforward/backward movement of the bars. The user may therefore push/pullthe bars away from/towards him to simulate the shifting of weight on thebars, i.e over the front or rear of the bicycle. Simulating front andback wheel weight distribution in a cycling simulation.

Specifically, this provides for realistic control of any object in a 3Dworld—ROTATIONALLY ABOUT X AXIS.

Weight Left/Right (Bank) Devices—Control About Z-axis,

Furthermore, the handlebars may be adapted to rotate about a third axisthat is perpendicular to the first two axes, that is leaning the bars tothe left or right (substantially about the z-axis). This allows the userto move the bars to simulate the leaning of a bicycle or other exercisedevice. A further input device may be provided accordingly.Specifically, this provides for realistic control of any object in a 3Dworld—ROTATIONALLY ABOUT Z AXIS.

Lift Up/Push Down Devices—Control Along the Y-axis,

The handlebars may be may further be adapted to move up and downrelative to the support in a plane substantially orthogonal to that forleft/right rotation, that is lifting up or squeezing down the bars(substantially along the y-axis). In use this may be a substantiallyvertical axis. A further input device may be provided accordingly.Specifically, this provides for realistic control of any object in a 3Dworld—LINEARILY ALONG Y AXIS. This simulates lifting or pushing down thefront wheel on a cycle and can be used to control simulated jumping andducking on the ground.

Sidestep Left/Right Devices—Control Along the X-axis,

Furthermore, the handlebars may be adapted to move to the left and rightrelative to the support in a plane substantially orthogonal to that forleft/right rotation, that is sliding the bars out to the left or right(substantially along the x-axis). In use this may be a substantiallyhorizontal axis. A further input device may be provided accordingly.Specifically, this provides for realistic control of any object in a 3Dworld—LINEARILY ALONG THE X AXIS. This simulates the “Sidestep” controlthat may be performed whereby a cyclist may move the bike under them ina sideways manner, generally only done in the air or when jumping on thespot.

Twist Grips

Another proposed input device comprises a rotatable grip portion of thehandlebars that may be twisted forwards and/or backwards by a user, thedevice producing an output signal indicative of the amount by which thegrips are twisted.

This provides increased Game Only application being able to be twistedbe a user in a forward or backward manner (backward as per a throttlecontrol on a motorcycle, my controller providing for forward rotationtoo). The device producing an output signal indicative of the amount bywhich the grips are twisted. Only one may be provided or two may beprovided in alternative embodiments. Specifically, this provides forrealistic control of any object in a 3D world—LINEARILY ALONG Z AXIS (ifprovided in duplicate the left one may replace or augment the lift/dropfunction of the bars, for example). In use for interactive exercise,this device may be used to represent changing gear on a bicycle or itmay incorporate the manual resistance adjustment and sensory means.Z-axis control is then through pedalling/braking.

Seat—On/Off and Weight Input Devices

Further, the seat may provide input devices being responsive to forceapplied to the saddle by the user. This may be provided in the form of aseat cover or replacement seat which may provide signals representativeof the user being sat thereon, and/or of the users weight on the seat.

Rear Sidestep/Yaw Left/Right Devices—Control Along X-axis, or AboutY-axis,

The seat cover or seat may provide further input devices responsive tothe user exerting force against them along a substantially horizontalaxis. This provides for such left/right control inputs (substantiallyalong the x-axis or about the y-axis). An input device may be providedproducing a signal indicative of the left/right force against the seat.Further, a seat post may be provided that is adapted to movehorizontally relative to the support (substantially along the x-axis orabout the y-axis). A further input device may be provided which producesan output indicative of the left or right movement of the seat.Specifically, this provides for further or alternative realistic controlof any object in a 3D world—ROTATIONALLY ABOUT Y AXIS or LINEARLY ALONGX AXIS. It may be in place of the handlebar slide left/right function oraugmenting it. In a bicycle simulation this provides for the“bum-steering” method of cycle control, for rotational control while “inthe air” and provides for simulation of real world freestyle techniques.

Rear Weight/Lift Up/Push Down Devices—Control Along Y-axis, or AboutX-axis,

Further, a seat post may be provided that is adapted to move verticallyrelative to the support (substantially along the y-axis or about thex-axis). A further input device may be provided which produces an outputindicative of the upward or downward movement of the seat. The user maytherefore push down or lift up the seat, i.e the rear of the bicycle.Simulating the user putting more weight through the seat, for instancewhen climbing on slippery surfaces, or lifting the rear of the cycle ina jump. This may also incorporate the seat on/off and weight functions.Specifically, this provides for further or alternative realistic controlof any object in a 3D world—ROTATIONALLY ABOUT X AXIS or LINEARLY ALONGY AXIS.

This provides ten degrees of freedom about the handlebars, two about thepedals/brakes (or the forward/reverse twist grip), and further fourabout the seat. This enables full, three dimensional/rotationalsimulation and control through familiar and realistic frames ofreference to the user.

The preferred embodiment provides for all the real world controllabilityof any moving object. This opens the controllable nature of the productto being able to control any object through any world. This can be usedto therefore control cars, motor-bicycles, planes, submarines, robotsetc., and spacecraft too. For example, if controlling a simulatedperson/robot in the first person, the user could control Turn L/R, Jumpor Up/Duck or Drop, Look Up/Down, Side Step L/R, Look L/R and WalkForward/Backward, respectively as per the above list.

The handlebar, and seat, brakes and twist grip, assembly may include aresistance means which provides a resistance to movement of thehandlebars relative to the support about any of the available degrees offreedom. This may comprise one or more springs such as compressionsprings. One or more dampers or twist resistance mechanisms may also beprovided to damp any movement. By providing resistance it becomesnecessary for the user to apply a load to overcome the resistance. Thisresistance may be preset or adjustable over a range of values. Thisfeature allows movement of the users weight to be detected when used incombination with an exercise cycle as well as providing a work-out forthe upper body, providing strength and flexibility training.

The resistance and damping may be adjustable by the user. This allowsthe resistance or damping to be reduced to make movement easier ifrequired, or increased.

Alternatively, the resistance and damping means may be adjustedautomatically in response to signals generated by either microprocessorunit. This adjustment may, for example, be responsive to the terrainover which a bicycle is passing on a screen attached to the processorand/or the speed of a simulated bicycle reproduced by the microprocessoron the screen or in a strength training programme.

The resistance and damping means may be associated with movement of thebars relative to the support about one of its axes of freedom. It is,however, preferred that a resistance is provided against each degree offreedom.

The preferred embodiment of the controller may provide resistance anddamping means about all degrees of freedom of the handlebar, and seat,devices. The movements of these devices are set up and arranged so at torequire the user to make realistic movements and to require them toexert significant force, against these resistance, springing and dampingmeans, to move them and hold them in place.

The movements of the handlebars and seat may be about pivoting,extending, compressing and sliding mechanisms. Stems within this designmay be movable to adjust for different sizes of user and may providefurther adjustability to the resistance means.

Movements are generally against stiff progressively sprung, return tozero hinging mechanisms optionally with progressive twist dampers. Analternative to the return to zero set up is in that one or more of thehandlebar control input devices may not be of the return to zero naturebut includes substantial, adjustable resistance to movements without areturn to zero function. The return to zero function may bedisconnectable and may be automatically controllable by eithermicroprocessor. This will negate the need for the user to exert forceagainst the resistance to simply hold the control in place when movedaway from the central position. Sensors return the appropriate signalfor that position.

Also the handlebar control input devices may not be of the return tozero nature but may be “spinnable” through 360 degrees. This functionmay be automatically controllable by either microprocessor and mayfurther be without the resistance. The resistance, in the automaticallycontrolled embodiment, may be controlled so as to provide little or noresistance when the simulated bike is in the air.

The handlebar assembly may further include one or more levers which canbe operated by a user. Two such levers may be provided, one towards eachend of the handlebars. Each lever may be adapted to produce a respectiveinput signal dependent upon the position of the lever, i.e. its movementwhen pulled by the user.

The levers can be used to simulate the brakes of a bicycle. They maycomprise an actual brake lever attached to a suitable switch to producethe input signal, or may be custom made and include an integral switch.

The output from each lever may comprise a stepped output over at leastpart of the range of movement of the lever. Therefore, the input signalproduced may be constant and of a first value over a first range ofmovement and constant or variable but of a second, different, value overa second, different, range of movement.

These “brake” levers may further incorporate a dual stage, stepped aswell as progressive and analogue, resistance to movement and outputsthere-from from. This simulates the real feel and control of brakeapplication. The first resistance stage may be very low and onlyslightly progressive over an initial range to simulate the slack/freeplay between the brake pad and the wheel rim. Further application willbe against the second stage of resistance/damping against stiffprogressively sprung, return to zero hinging mechanisms optionally withprogressive twist dampers. The sensor may send no signal over this firstrange, as the brakes are not applied yet. When the second stage isencountered, the lever moves the integral or connected joystick devicefrom zero through its full range therefore providing an analogue signalrepresentative of the brake pressure being applied by the user.

Further input devices may comprise one or more of seat, pedal, floor andhand-grip pressure sensors, sensing the users physical movements, i.e.if they are seated/standing, pushing and pulling the pedals, with theirfoot down or with no hands. These are more thoroughly discussed inaccordance with the second aspect.

The handlebar assembly further provides a plurality of Game and SystemInput Devices, specifically providing such game control as is standardon any games controller which, when activated by the user instruct themicroprocessor to perform a certain function. These are more thoroughlydiscussed in accordance with the second aspect.

Of course, the controller may include means for locking the handlebar,or seat or brakes, assembly in place against movement about one of itsdegrees of freedom. This prevents movement about their degrees offreedom to cater for those users maybe using the inbuiltmicroprocessor-based unit to use the equipment purely as a computercontrolled piece of equipment and for those users who may want the fullgraphics and sound capabilities but are not interested in thefun/technical control side of the system, this may be especiallyimportant to parents, older users, etc who may select for the softwareto control the direction, etc, i.e. “Autopilot” of the, e.g., simulatedcyclist while they provide the power thereto. None of the prior art hasthis functionality. This may permit folding and locking to enhanceportability.

The controller may further include one or more output devices which maycomprise actuators that are adapted to cause movement of the handlebarassembly in response to signals from the input devices or signalssupplied from a microprocessor based unit. This may be a movement aboutany one of the axes of freedom of the handlebars relative to theirsupport. The controller may further include one or more actuators whichare adapted to cause movement of a saddle, or exercise device, inresponse to signals from the input devices or signals supplied from themicroprocessor based unit.

Providing at least one actuator to cause movement of the controllerenables an increased level of realism to be provided. For example, theactuator may be adapted to cause a portion of the controller to vibrateto simulate travelling over rough terrain. The magnitude of the movementproduced may be varied, as well as its frequency.

At least one of the actuators may comprise an electromagnet which whenenergised is adapted to strike a portion of the handlebar assembly orthe saddle/seat assembly. This may generate a knock or thumpingsensation for a user holding the handlebars.

An actuator may be supported in such a way as to move either a supportfor a handlebar, or seat or exercise device, portion of the controlleror to directly move the handlebar, or seat or exercise device, portion.It may be located at least partially or wholly within the handlebar, orseat or exercise device, portion of the support.

These are actuators, vibrators and thumper units, removably attachableto the equipment and/or integral to the equipment, controller body,handlebar and seat that are controlled by the microprocessor unit(s).

These units move the equipment, vibrate it and thump it to emulate thereal world feelings of falls, knocks, skids, brake judder, rapids,different surfaces, etc. This gives the user more information to processthan simply the simulated track in front of them, it drives the mentalside of the equipment more and engages the user's mind more in the“game” than the exercise. A plurality of such devices are providedattaching to the handlebars, seat or exercise device providing generalshocks or shocks specifically for braking, surface, tyre feel and damagetactile sensations.

Further of these such outputs are used to control the resistancesprovided by the exercise device, such as pedal resistance or incline,and also the automatically controllable resistances within thehandlebar, seat, brake and twist grip devices and a variable speed fanas referred to below.

The handlebar assembly may include an output connector which allows theassembly to connect to a microprocessor based unit for passage of theoutput signals to the unit. The output connector may facilitate a hardwired connection to the microprocessor based unit. Alternatively, it mayinclude an infra-red communication port for wireless communication, orperhaps communication based on radio-waves.

The handlebar assembly may include a means for disabling the connectionto the microprocessor based unit. This may, for instance, be used tostop unauthorised use of the assembly. It may be key or electronicallyoperated.

The input devices may comprise sensors or switches that produce eitheran analogue or a digital output. The output may be continuous or pulsed.It will, of course be readily appreciated that the choice of format forthe signals produced by the devices will depend to a large extent on therequirements of the microprocessor that it is to be connected to. Theinput devices may be touch sensitive.

It is most preferred that the controller assembly is adapted to produceoutput signals that may be passed to a games console such as a SonyPlaystation through a connector that is plugged into the controller portof the console. Ordinarily, the consoles receive signals from simplejoysticks or control pads. These pads may be replaced by the controllerof the present invention. This is a considerable advantage. Most peoplealready have a basic exercise device such as an exercise bike. They willalso have a suitable microprocessor based unit. The provision of such ahandlebar assembly in combination with an ordinary exercise bicycle willbe considerably cheaper for most people than having to buy a dedicatedcomputer controlled exercise apparatus.

The handlebar assembly may include a wiring loom which includes at leastone connector to which one or more additional input devices may beattached. This allows the controller to receive signals from additionaldevices, such as the floor “foot down” sensors above.

The controller specifically provides an array of connectors to whichadditional input or output devices may be connected to. The additionalinput devices that may be attached to the controller through the inputport or which may form an integral part of the handlebar assembly are asfollows:

The controller may further include one or both of a speed sensor and acadence sensor responsive to the rate of revolution of pedals or thespeed of a bicycle, or its flywheel. The cadence sensor (or speedsensor) may produce an output signal that varies in proportion to thecadence. This may be a pulsed output in which the spacing between thepulses varies with cadence, or an analogue output voltage, generallythen converted to an appropriate resistance, that increases or decreasesas cadence changes. A plurality of each may be provided and they may beprovided to enable detection of direction of rotation.

In an alternative, the speed sensor and/or cadence sensor may produce afirst output if the cadence is below a certain threshold level and asecond output if it exceeds the threshold. This threshold may be variedunder the control of the microprocessor based unit running a suitableprogram, as discussed further later.

Providing a controller in the form of handlebars and a speed and/orcadence sensor enables a user to attach the device to his/her bicycleand control a programme running on the microprocessor-based unit whilstexercising. In addition to being able to control a programme run on themicroprocessor by moving the handlebars it is then also possible tocontrol the programme by varying the rate at which the pedals arerotated.

Where the handlebar assembly is used in combination with an exercisebicycle that has more than one gear (or resistance level), the inputdevices may include a gear (or resistance level) selection sensoradapted to produce a signal indicative of the gear ratio (or resistancelevel) of the bicycle which is selected by the user. In the pure gamingembodiment this may simply be a gaming input device indicating the usersselected gear. This may be included within the twist grips.

An input device may be provided which is adapted to produce controlsignals which are indicative of the resistance setting of the pedals orflywheel or generator, etc (how much power is needed to pedal at a givencadence). This may include further devices as required, eg to senseincline setting or, on the manually adjustable handlebar systems,sensing the resistance settings in the handlebar, etc devices. This maybe used in conjunction with a sensor adapted to measure the torqueproduced in the pedals assembly in order to enable a measurement of theenergy expended by the user to be made. The torque sensor may compriseone or more strain gauges that are adapted to measure deformation of atleast one pedal crank.

In an additional or alternative arrangement the handlebar assembly mayinclude a gear (or resistance level) selection actuator that can beattached or otherwise connected to the gear (or resistance level)selector of the bicycle and is adapted to receive signals from themicroprocessor based unit in turn to change the gear (or resistancelevel) setting of the bicycle. This actuator may, for obvious reasons,be located remotely from the handlebars and be connected thereto by oneor more electrical cables.

My games controller may control the existing resistance mechanism (via adirect output line from the microprocessor-based unit, by integration,electrical or mechanical connection or whatever means). Such devices maybe supplied in plurality to enable control of all parameters of theexercise device, for example controlling resistance, or speed, as wellas, for example, incline on a treadmill.

In a further alternative, pedal pressure sensors may be provided thatmeasure the pressures applied to one or both of the pedals of anexercise cycle by a user. This device may produce an output signal thatvaries with downward pressure applied to the pedals. It may also producean output signal that varies with upwards pulling force on the pedalswhen the pedals allow the users foot to be securely held in place, forexample by toe-clips. These outputs may also therefore inform themicroprocessor as to whether the users feet are on the pedals or not.These output signals can help to improve the users pedalling techniquewhen it drives a suitable output from a microprocessor based unit togive feedback to a user.

Alternatively, or additionally an input device may be provided thatproduces a signal or signals indicative of the weight of the user on thesaddle (whether they are stood up or sat down). It may also produce asignal indicative of the weight of the user.

An input device may also be (or alternatively be) responsive to theuser's heart rate or pulse. This may comprise an ear clip type sensor ora chest belt type sensor assembly or a hand-grip style sensor.

One or more of the input devices may be secured to the handlebar orexercise device assembly by screws or bolts or may be permanently fixedin place with glue or brazing. Alternatively, they may be detachablyattached by either a snap-on type connection or a hook and loopfastener, such as that sold under the mark Velcro.

The handlebar or seat assembly may be attached to or form a physicalpart of the piece of exercise apparatus on which the movements are to beperformed. The support may therefore include a portion of handlebar orseat stem adapted to be received within or supported relative to aheadtube or seat tube of a bicycle or an exercise cycle.

The handlebar assembly may include a quick-release mechanism that allowsit to be quickly and easily removed from an exercise apparatus.

Of course, it will be appreciated that the controller and the exerciseapparatus may be integrated as a single piece of equipment. However, theversatility provided by being able to attach a handlebar controller toany equipment will make the invention highly attractive within theleisure market.

The handlebar assembly may include an area of electronic memory adaptedto store information indicative of a users physiological ability and/orexercise preferences e.g. Age, sex, height, weight, blood pressure,heart rate, activity level. This may include information about the userspower output when pedalling, preferred resistance against pedallingloads etc. This may also include information about the exercise device,the users embodiment and configuration or control data. The memory mayalso store information which can be used by a programme to construct atraining programme appropriate to the user of the handlebar assembly.This may include performance data obtained by the handlebar assemblyfrom a previous exercise session. The handlebar assembly may includeappropriate wiring for access of the information form and for writinginformation to the area of memory. This memory may be integral or byattachable means.

The controller may further include a display and speakers which aremounted onto the handlebar assembly and which is adapted todisplay/sound information dependent upon the signals produced by theinput devices or from either microprocessor. The display may show gearselection information or heart rate for example, or perhaps speed,cadence, time, distance. It may also display a training map in the formof a histogram or other graphical representation of the users exerciseprogram. The speakers may warn of changes to occur or encourage the useror may provide for communications.

The controller may include a microprocessor and thus form a completeintegrated system. No other external microprocessor based unit will thenbe required and signals from the input devices may be passed to thisintegral microprocessor. Further functions of this are discussed furtherin accordance with Game Free and Any Game modes later. This may providethe De/Coder function, internal signal copying, mapping and otherwisecontrolling functions, threshold functions and shock and/or resistancecontrolling functions as referred to throughout. This is key to themulti modal operability of the system as referred to in accordance withthe third aspect. Internal and/or external power means are alsoprovided.

One of the main features and benefits of my games controller is that itcan be used in a variety of ways. It can be purely used as a state ofthe art games controller (Game Only), as per the first aspect overall.It may be used to run bespoke exercise or simulation software (BespokeExercise/Gaming) or it can be used to play any other games (Any Game &Train), whereby the users exertions may be combined to power theaccelerator or fire commands of that game. It is the input/outputstructure of my games controller, along with the internalmicroprocessor-based unit for additional features, which makes theseoptions possible. These are discussed further in accordance with thethird aspect.

The game only functionality of my games controller is provided by mycontroller being a I/O controller in its most basic form, as describedfully earlier. As childhood obesity is such a problem, this modeprovides a unique opportunity for parents to demonstrate and forchildren to get used to and enjoy the system so that it may encouragefull use with exercise. It also provides for better value for money dueto this multi functionality. In this mode the system is a pure gamescontroller that has the benefit of real input mechanisms, like thesteering wheel type controllers available for most platforms, and astable base, unlike most games controllers. This also provides forexercise free training at the technical side of the cycle game. In theembodiment disclosed in the drawings, the EXTRA analogue/digital ortouch sensitive button may be readily used for game only mode. Thiswould, for example, take the cadence or speed circuit, or whatevercircuit it is configured to, and gives this circuit full manual controlthrough this button which would commonly be or be set up to be theaccelerator/fire/etc. button, without needing the user to exercise.

The above devices in combination and their links to all the input andoutput devices in my games controller can control the input/outputmapping/setting of the devices within the system, with reference totheir control lines into or out of the external microprocessor-basedunit and or their outputs'control. This can be individually or withreference to a plurality of signals from any one or more inputs, maybeaccording to comparison against target input levels, frequencies, rates,statuses, etc.

The controller may further include a video camera which is adapted totake pictures of the user and transmit the images to the microprocessorbased unit. The camera may comprise a CCD device and may be mounted ontoeither the handlebar or the support.

The provision of the camera may be used to transmit images of the userfrom one microprocessor based unit to another, for example over theinternet. These pictures may then be displayed on a screen so that userscan see other users. It is envisaged that this will be especially usefulin allowing users to compete against each other using interlinkedmicroprocessor based units whilst seeing the images of the other user.

The controller may include a microphone and one or more voice-responsiveinputs. These inputs may be adapted to produce input signals to themicroprocessor based unit which are dependent upon commands spoken by auser. The microphone may be used for communications, voice sampling,etc. as per the camera.

The controller may further provide a keyboard and or a pointer (mouse,trackball, pads, etc).

It is further envisaged that my controller may have audio and visualinput devices, receiving signals from an external CD player, TV arial,Video, or whatever. It may also provide Graphical and Audio Overlayoutput devices whereby it can overlay graphical and audible signals overthat on the users TV, etc. The integral microprocessor may accordinglyprovide audio/visual overlay features whereby it can overlay the inputsignal on its display and/or speakers or to the externaldisplay/speakers.

Finally, providing an integral modem and/or connection to standard line,may enable use of the system in Game Free mode over the internet ornetworked in this way.

The above devices may be communicated through the controllers outputconnector through the same lines or through additional wiring withmultiple connectors at the end connecting, for example, to the gamecontroller, microphone, a USB, keyboard and mouse inputs on a PC. A“Double Adaptor” may then be provided at each of these to enable thestandard devices for that computer to be used as normal. A manual orautomatic switch may be provided which controls which devices may beused, ie the normal device or remote one proximal to the exercise unit.

According to a second aspect, the invention provides an exerciseapparatus comprising:

-   -   a programmable microprocessor-based unit including a receiving        means adapted to receive signals from a programmable cartridge        or other programme storage device that provides programme        instructions for controlling the operation of the programmable        microprocessor-based unit;    -   output means through which output signals can be passed from the        microprocessor to a display;    -   a display (optionally including speakers) adapted to display        images dependent upon the signals from the microprocessor-based        unit;    -   an exercise apparatus adapted to allow a user to perform a range        of movements associated with a sport; and    -   a controller according to the first aspect of the invention        comprising one or more input devices adapted to supply signals        to the microprocessor-based unit to modify the operation of the        programme running on the microprocessor in turn to modify the        images displayed on the display;        in which at least one of the input devices is responsive to the        movements of the user on the exercise apparatus.

It is most preferred that the exercise apparatus comprises an exercisebicycle or a road bicycle which is modified to behave as a stationaryexercise bicycle.

The programmable microprocessor-based unit preferably comprises a gamesconsole. The microprocessor-based unit may comprise a unit sold underthe name “Sony Playstation” by Sony Corporation, or one of the othergames/consoles sold by Nintendo. These consoles include the requiredprocessor and an input for a game controller. The input/output device ofthe present invention may replace or supplement such a game controllerand connect to the unit through the input post provided. The unit mayalternatively comprise a personal computer, in which case the controllermay interface to the computer through the common game controllerinterface, USB interface or as an alternative to or in addition to theuse of a keyboard.

The applicant appreciates that a system which combines an exerciseapparatus and a games console will appeal to a wide audience. Both ofthese devices are present in many households already. By providingappropriate program for the console and a suitable low-cost controllerto attach to the exercise device and novel and useful exercise apparatuscan be provided.

Connecting the controller to a games console or personal computerenables users to cost effectively train with and, or, against otherusers in simulated races or group outings across multi linked consoles,local area networks, wide area networks and the internet. It enablescost effective interactive multi player races, games, tours, events,etc; bulletin board races can be entered allowing users to meet andtrain with real people; users may find groups of on line friends withsimilar abilities or objectives to train with; on line Olympics can beheld, which may require the racers to be racing from a controlledcomplex where all machines are standardised; users can go to the virtualbike park to train technically or at freestyle; users can train withtheir friends or training buddies while at home or at the gym or evenwhen on holiday or travelling on business.

The programme cartridge or other device (such as a magnetic or opticaldisk) may contain programme instructions which when run on themicroprocessor-based unit provides images and sounds on the display andspeakers corresponding to a simulation of the exercise undertaken. Thedisplay may be head mounted.

As an example, the display may show a view along a stretch of road ormountain track, the rate at which the user moves along the road willvary with the speed at which he/she pedals and perhaps the gear in whichthe bicycle is set. The display may show a right turn when the userpulls to the right on the handlebars of the cycle, and a left turn whenthey pull to the left.

The programme may simulate a race, such as a rowing race or bicyclerace. The user may interact with the programme through the input deviceand either win or lose the race depending on the input from the inputdevice. This may include speed but may also depend on technique (i.e.timing of movements by the user where such signals are generated by theinput device). Where two or more microprocessor based units areinterconnected, each unit may run similar or identical programmes andthe display associated with each device may indicate whether the user isahead of or behind the user of the other unit. This allows a head tohead race to be simulated.

The programme may be adapted to perform an initial grading andclassification of the fitness level of the user. This will then be usedto set customised, realistic, goals and milestones in the form of gamelevels, updating this fitness level in real time.

The microprocessor-based unit (external or integral) may be furtheradapted to produce an output signal to an actuator or more than oneactuator to control movement or other parameters of the exercise deviceresponsive to the programme running on the unit. The present inventionprovides for such control without requiring any modification of theexternal microprocessor, using the feedback outputs.

For example, the output signal may be adapted to instruct the exercisedevice to increase resistance to the user performing a particularmovement. In the case of an exercise bicycle, this may be to make itharder to pedal or easier to pedal depending on the programme that isrunning. In a treadmill this may increase resistance and incline.

Alternatively or additionally, the output signal may operate an actuatorwhich vibrates, thumps or knocks at least a part of the exercise cycleor other exercise device, for instance to simulate rough terrain orother obstacles. The display may, for instance, show that a simulated“bicycle” route includes rough terrain and move the actuators tosimulate the feel of such rough terrain.

The microprocessor-based unit may include memory means adapted to storeuser definable parameters. Alternatively, it may be adapted tocommunicate with a remote memory (such as a memory card or module) andto store/retrieve information from the memory. A further memory may beprovided which is adapted to communicate with the microprocessor basedunit through a port provided as part of the handlebar assembly. This maybe integral or connected to this unit.

The memory may store information indicative of a user's physicalabilities such as strength or stamina. The memory may store settings forthe exercise device which can be used by the programme running on themicroprocessor-based unit. This may also store information regarding thegame and the users preferences/configurations.

The input signals produced by the input devices of the controller andthe output signals received by the controller the may be categorisedinto one or more of five categories:

-   1. Active input devices.-   2. Control input devices.-   3. Gaming input devices.-   4. Simulation devices.-   5. System devices.

Examples of each class of input are as follows:

ACTIVE Input Devices

These are input devices that are adapted to supply signals to themicroprocessor in order to control the physical training side of theapparatus. They provide the interface for the important physical factorswhich convert the users actual physiological efforts into an inputsignal to be processed by the microprocessor-based unit.

These active inputs may be one or more physical and physiologicalexercise input devices that read and measure the activity levels of theuser and of the equipment, as powered by the user, and send signals tothe microprocessor-based unit(s) representative thereof. These inputdevices control the physical exercise side of the system as they convertthe physical and physiological efforts of the user on the equipment intoactivity and exercise based input signals for the microprocessor-basedunit(s). They measure the activity levels of the key mechanical andphysiological activities, exertion levels of the user, rates ofrepetition of activities on the equipment and the resistance and/or gearselected. They enable measurement of activity and incentivise the userto increase activity or to maintain activity levels within programmedvariable boundaries. They provide for the actual simulation of the usersactual efforts and outputs through live or threshold to themicroprocessor(s).

They may provide analogue or digital signals as sensed by whateversensory means, remote or integral to the equipment or controller mainbody, communicated by whatever communication means, feeding directly orindirectly to the external and integral microprocessor-based units viathe integral and industry standard electronics and may be integratedwith the equipment or removably attached by whatever means.

It is envisaged that one or more of active input devices may be providedto measure various parameters. The preferred embodiment of my gamescontroller provides for Speed, Cadence, Resistance Selected, GearSelected, Torque Applied, Seat On/Off, Weight and Heart Rate monitoractive input devices, although further devices may be added.

Speed & Cadence Sensory Means

A first input device may be provided which is adapted to produce asignal indicative of the rate of repetition of a movement performed bythe user. This may for instance be the rate at which the user rotatesthe wheel of an exercise bicycle, or the number of strokes per minute ofthe oars of a rowing machine. It may comprise a switching devicecomprising a magnetic sensing means such as a reed switch and magnetwhereby a signal is produced whenever the magnet passes the magneticsensing means. A magnet may be attached to a flywheel or roadwheel of abicycle and a reed switch attached within proximity to flywheel fork legof exercise bike—measures each revolution of the wheel to gauge user'sefforts. Alternatively, or additionally, the magnet may be attached tothe pedal crank of an exercise cycle and the reed switch attached withinproximity to pedal crank arm. This would measure each revolution of thecrank to measure cadence.

The Speed Input measures the rate of rotation of the equipments wheel,flywheel, rolling road, fan etc. The cadence input measures the rate ofrotation of the equipments crank, oars, user's legs etc. The cadencetherefore measures the rate of exercising input to the mechanism and thespeed measures the rate of output/simulated movement through theequipment's resisted mechanism, i.e., the outputs of their efforts. Theycommunicate signals representative thereof to the microprocessor(s). Aplurality of each may be provided and they may be provided to enabledetection of direction of rotation.

They function, work, communicate and may be provided in the same waysand means as described above for all devices. Again they can be bywhatever sensory, output and communication means and can be integral,snap on, attachable, or connectable. They could be, for example,measured by a magnet and reed switch connected to/proximate to theflywheel and cranks of a stationary exercise bicycle or by photoelectricmeans, or may be simply connected to the equipment's existingmeasurement means from the flywheel, crank, motor, generator, etc. Thecadence sensor(s) could be integrated under the rolling surface of atreadmill and speed sensor(s) connected to the speed sensor mechanism.

These inputs provide a direct input to the microprocessor-based unit(s)of the physical and mechanical input and output of the user. Prior artonly disclose one device in this regard, generally cadence. The benefitof both input devices, therefore measuring exercise inputs and outputs,is especially relevant in the connectability of the system to Trainersand Geared Exercise bicycles, the reality of simulation and technicaltraining.

Both devices also provide for better momentum control of the simulation,providing a real, live input to the microprocessor-based unit(s) as perthat experienced by the user. The inputs, and therefore simulatedoutputs, will therefore appear real to the user with regard to theiractual power inputs and feel of momentum. For example, the flywheel onthe equipment slows down, when pedalling ceases, in accordance with theresistance setting on the equipment, which is set as appropriate to thesimulated environment. As pedalling has stopped, forward momentum canstill be modelled realistically by the microprocessor-based unit(s) asit has a direct feed of the momentum of the flywheel therefore thesimulated bicycle will depict the same momentum, i.e., will slow down atthe same rate as the flywheel.

With regard to technical training, the provision of both devices is alsoimportant, for example, when landing the simulated bicycle from asimulated jump or drop, the user should stop pedalling while in the airand to prepare for landing. If the user appropriately stops pedalling,the microprocessor-based unit may depict a safe landing, otherwise itmay depict a crash landing. This also prevents “cheating” by pedallingwhile in the air, when automatic systems will adjust the resistance topedalling to minimum/zero. On a treadmill this may provide for differentstride patterns to be trained. Again, this gives greater realisticsimulation, technical training and distractionary features to thesystem.

Seat On/Off and Weight

A further input device may be provided which is adapted to produce asignal indicating whether or not a user is seated or is standing whenusing the exercise apparatus. This may comprise a pressure sensitiveswitch which may be mounted within or on top of the seat covering andconnected by wire or a wireless connection to controller main body. Theinput device may then detect when the user is in the seated position toenable training programmes. As with all the other input devices this maybe built in/to the exercise device or may be retrofitted, i.e.detachably removable. In the case of a cycle apparatus, this deviceenables the apparatus to provide technique training in conjunction with,e.g., the weight forward/back control for ascending slippy inclines.This signal also enables structured training sessions whereby “jumping”is used to increase exertion levels for set periods. For example, theprogram may produce a display which indicates that a user should standat a predetermined point. If the signal produces indicates that thismovement has been performed the display may indicate a reward for theuser. If not the user may be penalised.

This may be a pressure sensitive switch which produces a signal to themicroprocessor-based unit(s) indicative of whether the user is seated onthe equipment or standing. It functions, works, communicates and isprovided in the same ways and means as described above for all devicesand, again, can be by whatever sensory, output and communication meansand can be integral, snap on, attachable or basic. It may be integratedinto a seat cover, integrated into a full replacement seat or may bepart of the features of the full seat and seat-post system.

It enables more structured training whereby the user may be required topedal standing up, maybe against greater resistance, for a period oftime as part of the user's program. This input device enables themicroprocessor-based unit(s) to audit the fact that you have performedthis activity, for advancement or output purposes. This is important tothe actual physical exercise as pedalling whilst standing on the pedalsexercises different muscle groups and provides for greater upper bodyexercise too. It is required as another aspect of control for the user,with more distractionary properties, and provides for a “break” in thetraining.

With regard to technical training, e.g. landing a jump, not only shouldthe user stop pedalling as discussed earlier but also they should be offthe seat preparing to take the shock on landing. If the game senses thatthe user is not standing for landing it may depict a crash landing, withall the simulation devices and the display/speakers. Further benefitscome from this device by way of simulating freestyle (tricks) using thesystem. For example, if the user pedals hard and pulls back on the barsto initiate a wheelie, if seated the game can depict a seated wheelie,if the user is standing, a standing wheelie can be depicted.

The system may further be able to detect the weight of the user. Thismay be used to set up the personal settings for that user in a home usesetting or, in the commercial application, may be used to automaticallyset up the handlebar and seat resistances to match them to the user.

HRM Sensory Means and System

A further input device may be provided which is adapted to produce asignal indicative of the users pulse rate. This may be a switch mountedwithin an ear pulse sensor connected by wire to controller main body ORby pick up device in controller main body receiving signal from a chestbelt type pulse detector transmitter. It may be provided as anattachment to controller main body OR chest belt type pulse detectortransmitter. Enables a safe monitored training session which will stopthe programme if, e.g., the heart rate goes too high. The microprocessorbased unit (integral or external) may automatically decide when the safethreshold has been exceeded based upon data stored in memory about ausers physiology, i.e. Weight, resting pulse etc. Also enables “ZoneTraining” whereby the heart rate zone, dependent on personal settingsinput to the Memory Unit, is used to set exertion levels for setperiods. It also enables the calculation of professionally set fitnesslevels and training programmes to be provided using static measurementor active measurements of a users abilities.

This may include biosensor means, connected to the user's body by earclip, chest belt, hand grip, or whatever type devices, which senseand/or measure the heart rate of the user and produce a signalrepresentative thereof. The user's existing heart rate monitor beingconnected to my games controller may provide this. These sensorscommunicate the readings to the reader unit by whatever means,hardwired, IR, radio, etc. The reader part of the system receives thissignal by what ever means and communicates this reading to themicroprocessor-based unit(s).

It functions, works, communicates and is provided in the same ways andmeans as described above for all devices and again can be by whateversensory, output and communication means and can be integral, snap on,attachable, connectable or basic. The heart rate system, as discussedearlier, may be direct or by via a threshold system to the integraland/or external microprocessor-based unit.

HR Monitor or Exercise Controller

Including such a device provides great safety and exercise benefits tothe user. Users like to either train with reference to their heart rate,view their training heart rate achievements or simply know that a deviceis monitoring their heart rate and will warn them if the level is toohigh, or even too low. It also provides for safe exercise gaming,ergometer properties and functionalities, heart rate zone trainingmethods and for more accurate calorie consumption measurement.

The prior art limit themselves to using the heart rate monitor system asa device to adjust the exertion levels of the user in accordance withinternally preset zones and levels. Once the user hits what the systemhas previously calculated to be the user's maximum heart rate zonelevel, the system will then reduce the resistance of the equipment toreduce the user's heart rate, there is therefore no incentive to pushharder and no ability to undertake anaerobic training, which isgenerally at much higher heart rates. My games controller keeps theheart rate system as a defined input means not within a closed loopsystem. The system, via the internal or external microprocessor-basedunits, can read this input independently and can either use this tocontrol the training program (as like the prior art but not limited tothis) or as a simple monitor which allows for realistic live exercisingbut with the benefit of live monitoring and warning systems. It may alsoprovide a combination of both.

Fitness Measurement

The provision of the heart rate monitor in such an integrated systemfurther enables the microprocessor-based unit(s) to calculate the user'sfitness level and appropriate optimal training heart rate zones. Mostusers may be not knowledgeable enough to work out their own zones. Themicroprocessor-based unit(s) can run an appropriate program, withreference to the user's age, sex, weight, etc, and can set theappropriate workout for the user to perform, i.e., certain speeds,cadence, resistance, etc, to enable the system to calculate the user'sfunctional capacity. The user's personal data may be stored on theintegral and or the external memory means and may record the user's age,sex, height, weight, chest size, blood pressure, activity level,training history, exercise objectives, etc and use these to set anapproximate Max-Min Zone, Target Zone, etc. which can then be monitored,modified and updated through scheduled fitness and zone measurementprograms or through performance in standard training programs/games.

This ensures that the zones and limits will be monitored and updated inreal time with the user's exercise program, automatically, by thesystem, without the user needing to schedule, re-perform and re-inputthis themselves. The user's exercise preferences and objectives may beused to select the type of programs to run, personalise the programs orset the zones/limits or simulation/exertion resistance modes. Thistherefore provides for structured and/or monitored safe trainingmethods. It also provides relevant data for rehabilitation,physiotherapy and health professional review as actual exercise data maybe recorder easier and can be communicated easier through my gamescontroller. This also gives benefits to the Managed Health Carecompanies who may demand that a “customer” help himself or herself,through a structured training program.

Live Training

This “live” training method is more realistic to the user, it is morechallenging but the progression is far more satisfying. Athletes performat their best in competitive situations, the advantage here is that,unlike the prior art where the heart rate monitor system is part of aclosed loop controlling the user's exertions, the system here providesanother live input which can be used whatever way the user decides. Asthe prior art provide a closed loop with the resistance system, they aredo not provide a real piece of training apparatus for the fit peoplewanting further real training, the kids who have the energy to push, andthe fact that is users were performing the exercise in the real worldtheir exertions would not be limited by computer controlled systems. Mygames controller is designed to enable people to interactively train asper the real sport world and assist self-motivation. If really riding abicycle up a steep road, no one will flatten the road for you becauseyour heart rate goes too high as judged by some computer or generalisedmethod, you will just have to lower the gear as much as you can, putyour head down and pedal, pedal, pedal. Once you get to the top you havea great sense of achievement, which only serves to motivate you more!

The provision of the integral connectability enables the Any Game modeof training, which again may be run as a zone training session, a livetraining session with active monitoring, or a combination of both, inaccordance with the internal microprocessor-based unit's software.

Overall the heart rate system provides for greater usability of theequipment, providing a safe, monitored, recordable and auditabletraining system, which is more realistic and fun.

Resistance Setting Reader(s)

A further active input device, or devices, may be adapted to produce asignal indicative of the level of resistance that the exercise device isproviding against the users movements. This may comprise a positionsensitive reading switch device adapted to detect the position of alever or knob that can be moved by the user to vary the resistance. Thissignal enables proper varying force training without requiring the fullautomatic system as the console can read actual tension setting.Therefore structured exertion level training programmes or pure racescan be properly “played” through on manual tension control machines.Also, on the automatic geared machines it may inform the Console of gearselected and timing of changes, to enable technique training.

This input device represents a position sensor that reads theresistance, incline or gear, or handlebar, seat or brake resistances,manually selected by the user on the exercise equipment. It isspecifically designed to bring all the functionality of my gamescontroller to all types of manually adjusted resistance exerciseequipment and Trainers.

It functions, works, communicates and is provided in the same ways andmeans as described above for all devices and, again, can be by whateversensory, output and communication means and can be integral, snap on, orattachable. Specifically this device is designed/configuredwithin/to/around a manual lever, knob, twist grip, or what ever type ofmanual resistance adjustment means may be present on the exerciseapparatus, and is calibrated over the full range of adjustability of thedevice. This may also be a cover over buttons on a exercise device whichprovides button controlled resistance adjustment or may be acommunicator device, communicating and therefore reading the resistancesetting on such devices. The sensor therefore is able to read what levelof resistance the user has selected. It may be an attachable devicewhich covers the existing manual control lever, or connects to anexposed portion of the resistance adjusting cables, or it may besupplied as a replacement to the existing control or it may be integralor by whatever means. The sensor may provide an analogue signal or acoded digital signal, direct or via the 3D Shock Box De-Coder unit asdiscussed later, to the microprocessor-based unit(s) which isrepresentative of the level of resistance selected by the user. Theanalogue unit may provide a direct analogue output configured over theadaptor/controls range of motion or in the digital system it may readthe position by whatever means, analogue or stepped digital, and convertthis reading, via the De-Coder box to a pulsed signal along one inputline to be read by the microprocessor-based unit(s).

To calibrate the resistance means and levels, a configuration programmay be run by the microprocessor-based unit(s) which requests ameasurement of the force/weight required to move the exercise mechanismagainst the resistance over a range of resistance settings whereby themicroprocessor-based unit may then recommend adjustments to theresistance control to bring the resistance levels at different tensionsinto line with it's requirements. Other methods of course may beprovided, even where the user must set the resistances such that, e.g.the placement of one common household object on horizontal pedals attension setting X will cause rotation of the pedals, this may berepeated over the entire range of settings. From calibration techniquessuch as these the microprocessor-based unit(s) can map from theirrequired resistance settings, per the simulation/training program, towhat setting the user must select so as to achieve uniformity inresistances, forces and energy required over all exercise apparatus andresistance systems. This enables full simulation in a retro-fitembodiment.

This novel feature enables proper structured variable resistance andexertion level simulations and training programs, and the audit thereof,to be performed on manual exercise equipment, therefore negating theneed for costly fully automatic pieces of equipment. It serves for thosewho cannot afford these automatic machines, those who want to try thesystem first and those satisfied with their existing manual exerciseequipment. No prior art disclose anything in this regard at all, theyare either the costly fully automatic integrated pieces of equipment,or, the resistance setting on the equipment bears no significance to thesimulated world. The calibration also ensures that user's are notexercising against too low or too high resistances, as may be the casewith a video based exercise.

The microprocessor-based units can therefore instruct the user as to theresistance setting to select via live instructions and can read whatresistance setting the user has selected which may be incorporated intothe program. This may be processed in different ways, for example, itmay be within a structured training program which warns the user, viathe display and/or audio signal, of an increase in resistance, if theuser does not do so the program will regard this as the user notproperly completing the given program (therefore not allowingadvancement to the next level). Otherwise, it may be incorporated torepresent the user changing the simulated gear selected. In the aboveexample, the user not increasing the resistance may be processed as arequest to therefore shift down in gear on the simulated bicycle,therefore reducing the simulated speed of the user for the givenspeed/cadence readings. This may affect the users chances ofsuccessfully beating the simulated opponent and progressing. Thesimulation may return the user to “full speed” once the required tensionmatches that selected. If the above was a decrease in tension but theuser kept the equipment in a higher resistance setting, this could beprocessed as changing up in gear therefore increasing the simulatedspeed at the given speed/cadence readings. Users can therefore progressat their pace through whatever simulated world they may be in.

Gear Sensor(s)

With regard to Trainers, i.e. those real road bicycles adapted to behaveas stationary exercise bicycles, this sensor is exactly like theResistance Setting Reader as discussed above but it senses and providesa signal representative of the actual gear selected on the bicycle. Withregard to other exercise equipment it senses and provides a signalrepresentative of the “simulated” gear the user requires andcommunicates this to the microprocessor-based unit(s). On exerciseequipment, these may be regarded as further gaming input devices,controlling the simulated gear.

On Trainers it works in the same way as the Resistance Setting Reader,on other equipment it may be a lever (with integral RSR-type device) ormay be digital up/down switches or whatever sensory, output andcommunication means. It can be integral, snap on, attachable or basic.This may of course be provided by the twist grips in exercise modes,simulating the twist grip gear changers.

On the Trainers, it provides for more real measurement of the actualexertions/outputs of the user and therefore can provide bettersimulation and technical training. On the automatic equipment versions,this increases the possibilities in the simulated environment immensely.If the simulated world's resistance setting is too low or high for theuser, as per a simulated course, they can select to increase or decreasesimulated gear respectively. This will cause their simulated speed toincrease/decrease while the automatic resistance control willincrease/decrease the resistance setting to reflect the change of gear.Again, this is a completely independent input selector, which enablesthe internal/external software to fully control the tension in a morerealistic simulated world, giving the user more incentive to push harderto win, albeit against harder resistance or the option to take it easyand look about. It also provides for technical training in the skill ofproper gear selection and the timing of gear changes.

Torque Reader

This is a device that senses and measures the actual power/force beingapplied to the cranks of a bicycle, oars of a rower, etc. (for instancemeasuring crank deformation) and communicates a signal representativethereof to the microprocessor-based unit(s), directly or indirectly.This therefore provides the system with a reading of actual energy beingexpended at a given resistance.

It incorporates all the options, wiring, communication and attachabilityfeatures of all devices and works by industry standard engineeringmeans, such as crank deformation readings, etc. Like the ResistanceSetting Reader it may work through providing a direct analogue signal ora coded digital signal representative of the force/energy to themicroprocessor(s).

The benefit of this is that it provides for enhanced calorie consumptionand power output readings but it also would provide for automaticcalibration of the manual or automatic resistance mechanisms.

Control Input Devices

In addition to the active input devices, the controller may also includeone or more control input device may include devices that are adapted toproduce signals to the microprocessor that run the sport techniquesimulation and game control side of the system. They provide theinterface for the important technique/control factors which convert theusers control movements into an input signal to be processed by thecomputer.

The Control Input Devices cover any one or more directional androtational controls applicable to the simulated environment. They sensethe Steering, Weight Distribution, Lift/Drop, Yaw, Sidestep and Brakingcontrol inputs. They read and measure the inputs being applied by theuser and supply a signal representative thereof to themicroprocessor-based unit(s) to run the sport, fun and technicalsimulation/game control side of the system.

Handlebars—Moveable and Sensory Means

In the case of an exercise cycle apparatus the control devices maycomprise an integral part of a handlebar assembly. They may compriseposition sensors that are mounted within adjustably stiff, progressivelysprung, return to zero hinging or otherwise movable mechanisms thatdetect force applied or movements to the handlebar assembly by the user.It is preferred that the output of these devices is analogue in nature,i.e. they give a progressive output dependent on how much they are movedby. They may also have internal bump stops and may be lockable to enableautopilot training. This option allows a user to concentrate on thephysical training rather than the skills. In the case of a bicycledisplayed on a screen it would automatically keep the bicycle on thecorrect course yet allow the user to control the speed through the pedaleffort being made.

The preferred embodiment provides for a novel handlebar games controllerdevice that can turn left/right (“steering”), lift up/down(“jumping/ducking”), bank left/right and lean forward/backward (“weightdistribution”), and slide left/right (“side-step”) about a series ofpivots, extendable/compressible stems and slidable housings. Thesemovable means are arranged in such a manner as to realisticallyrepresent the handlebar based control inputs that a real mountain-bikerider may perform. This would also simulate the feel of front suspensionon a bicycle. The handlebars also provide two levers, functionally thefront and back brakes, as discussed later.

They may be positioned in such a way around/as part of the handlebarstem/brake levers as to ensure the user has to be more involved in thegame by requiring realistic movements to work them. The hinges are setup as to provide a very involving nature to the game. In the real worldyou have to be quick and firm in weight distribution changes and have tophysically move over a large radius. This will make the user moreinvolved in the game rather than his tiring legs and also means the userwill be learning real world control techniques. They also provide forfreestyle technique training, e.g. to wheelie you must pedal hard whileshifting weight backwards and then balance it by carefully balancingpedal power and brakes. Further, this provides for substantial,adjustable and progressive strength and flexibility exercise andtraining.

The handlebar assembly including the control devices may be availablefor retrofitting conversion of a users'existing exercise bike or builtinto an exercise bicycle. On the more basic systems these will be simplejoystick/button controls mounted via Snap On kits or Bracket MountingBasic Interactive Controllers. This example explores the full handlebarsystem.

The handlebar assembly may include a quick-release mechanism that allowsit to be quickly and easily removed from an exercise apparatus.

It is also envisaged that they may be “switchable” in that the user mayselect an “autopilot” mode, and possibly lock the controls in place withthe locking means as disclosed later. In autopilot mode the software mayautomatically provide the appropriate directional, weight controls, etcto enable to user to concentrate on the purely physical side of drivingthe simulated character and/or to learn the appropriate methods tonegotiate the course. Perhaps, by on-screen and/or aural inputrequirement displays.

They are sensors that detect the required activity/control input. Theymay be set within this upper body exerciser and simulator via integratedstandard components in the handlebar and seat units, connected by cablesto them or may be simple directional control devices integrated intoHandlebar Grip/Lever Housings, Seat Covers and Units and/or Basiccontrollers. It is the preferred embodiment of my games controller thatthe unit housing the control input devices also houses the Gaming InputDevices, System Input and Output Devices and Simulation Output Devices,the integral Microprocessor-based unit, attachable/integral Memory andthe integral Display means. All other options may be connectable hereto.

It should be understood that these sensors may be provided without thehandlebar system as above but still under the spirit of this invention.

My games controller provides realistic control input devices about ahandlebar/stem device for:

Weight Forward/Backward (Pitch) Input Devices—Control About X-axis,

As per the first aspect, the controller may include one or more inputdevices which are adapted to produce signals indicative of thedistribution of the weight of the user on the exercise device. This maybe a modified joystick mounted within/by cable to the sprung hingemechanism in the handlebar stem and is hinged about same point as thishinge mechanism and has flexible ends to prevent knocks—measures theamount by which the user is moving his weight towards the front/rear ofthe bike. It may be built in/to be retro-fitted by user/as basicbutton/lever controlled pad/Snap On attachments.

Turn Left/Right (Steer) Input Devices—Control About Y-axis,

As per the first aspect, the handlebar assembly may also be adapted toprovide signals to the microprocessor-based apparatus indicative of theuser pulling the handlebars to the left or to the right. The controllermay therefore include at least one angular position sensor, which may bemounted within/by cable to the sprung hinge mechanism in the handlebarstem. It may be hinged about same point as this hinge mechanism and hasflexible ends to prevent knocks—measures the amount by which the user isturning the handlebars left right to point the “bike” in the rightdirection. It may be built in/to be retrofitted by user/as basicbutton/lever controlled pad/Snap On attachments.

Weight Left/Right (Bank) Input Devices—Control About Z-axis,

As well as measuring whether the users weight is forwards or backwardson the device, as per the first aspect, it may also produce a signalindicating whether the weight is to the left or the right. Again, thisanalogue movement detection rheostatic lever device—working through ananalogue joystick type device—joystick mounted within/by cable to thesprung hinge mechanism in the handlebar stem and may be hinged about thesame point as this hinge mechanism and has flexible ends to preventknocks—measures the amount by which the user is moving his weight to theleft/right of the bike to initiate banking. Comes built in/to beretro-fitted by user/as basic button/lever controlled pad/Snap Onattachments.

Lift Up/Push Down Inputs—Control Along Y-axis,

The handlebars may be may further be adapted to move up and downrelative to the support in a plane substantially orthogonal to that forleft/right rotation, that is lifting up or squeezing down the bars(substantially along the y-axis). In use this may be a substantiallyvertical axis. A further input device may be provided accordingly. Thismay be a modified analogue joystick device mounted within/by cable tothe extending/compressing mechanism in the handlebar stem and isconfigured about same point as this movable mechanism and has flexibleends to prevent knocks—measures the amount by which the user is liftingor dropping the front of the bike. It may be built in/to be retro-fittedby user/as basic button/lever controlled pad/Snap On attachments.Specifically, this provides for realistic control of any object in a 3Dworld—LINEARILY ALONG THE Y AXIS. This simulates lifting or pushing downthe front wheel on a cycle and can be used to control simulated jumpingand ducking on the ground.

Sidestep Left/Right Inputs—Control Along X-axis,

Furthermore, the handlebars may be adapted to move to the left and rightrelative to the support in a plane substantially orthogonal to that forleft/right rotation, that is sliding the bars out to the left or right(substantially along the x-axis). In use this may be a substantiallyhorizontal axis. A further input device may be provided accordingly.This may be a modified analogue joystick device mounted within/by cableto the extending/compressing or otherwise sliding mechanism in thehandlebar stem and is configured about same point as this movablemechanism and has flexible ends to prevent knocks—measures the amount bywhich the user is “sidestepping” the front of the bike. Specifically,this provides for realistic control of any object in a 3Dworld—LINEARILY ALONG THE X AXIS. This simulates the “Sidestep” controlthat may be performed whereby a cyclist may move the bike under them ina sideways manner, generally in the air or when jumping on the spot.

The Control Input Sensory Devices, as above, may be set within orconnected to these movable means. They function, work, communicate andmay be provided in the same ways and means as described above for alldevices and as further explained with specific reference to ControlInput Devices above. Again, they can be by whatever sensory, output andcommunication means and can be integral, snap on, attachable or basic.In the preferred embodiment, they may be industry standard analoguejoystick devices simply built into or connected to the respective pivot,within the handlebar or seat units, with sprung or bump stop protectiondevices, which therefore move this joystick directly when the pivot ismoved. This provides cost and durability benefits and also negates therequirement to calibrate the steering mechanism with the potentiometer.

This level of controllability and the more realistic simulations thatcan be produced there-from; enable the user to learn actual techniquesrequired for the control of a real mountain-bike or BMX, allowing forthe realistic simulation of freestyle techniques also. As the controlsare about realistic frames of reference for the user, this techniquetraining will be advantageous for the real world and would build theirconfidence, strength and reaction times. The greater controllability andrequirements therefore also increase the mental distraction for the useraway from the exercise. As the exercise may provide for greater speed oftravel along one or more of the axes (by exertion controlling movementspeed as a direct input or by limiting other inputs) it is envisagedthat this will encourage the user to exert themselves more in thisregard, rather than being focused on the downside of this exercise.

My games controller provides a realistic simulation, which is morementally involving for the user and provides for greater fun through thetechnical training and freestyle possibilities this novel controllerprovides. It can therefore enhance a user's technical knowledge andskills. This is not possible with the control features as provided byany prior art.

For example, when descending a steep, slippery simulated descent, theuser should pull the bars back, transfer their weight over the rearwheel, use the back brake only and be off the seat not pedalling. Or, toperform a trick, for example a 360-degree spin in mid air, substantiallyabout the y-axis, the user should cycle hard towards a jump, maybe pressthe trick button, but just before the top of the ramp twist the bars inone direction, press and release the jump button (or lift the bars) thenbe off the seat while not pedalling and holding the bars and twistingagainst the seat, for the direction and duration of the spin untilpointing straight again when they release the bars and seat and pull thebars back to transfer their weight over the back wheel to land safely.They may then sit down and start pedalling again. If the user happenedto bank the bars in any direction the computer may depict a flat360-degree spin whereby the bike is horizontal rather than vertical. Ifthe user also happened to pull the bars back vigorously at the top ofthe ramp, maybe also seated, the computer may depict a flat 360-degreespin within a back flip, substantially about the x-axis. If going fastenough/high enough the user may hold any/all of these to perform 540 or720-degree or more trick or may perform a further trick within the samejump.

The Trick button may initiate this mode or may augment the range ofcontrols effectively doubling the range of tricks performable, e.g. alsopressing the trick button in the above, may depict a hands-free trick asper the above, or, this may be provided by further specific InputDevices.

Supporting Means

The system may be provided as main unit with a standard handlebar stemfitting. This is prime to the novelty of my games controller in terms ofits retro-fittable nature. Prior Art's attempts at such control devicesdo not provide for all the control device sensory/resistance means to beincorporated into the handlebar unit or remotely connected thereto. Withsuch standard supporting means this enables use of the system by itselfas a games controller, with any exercise equipment what so ever and withany roadworthy bicycle also. This may be connected to any suchsupporting means at the users disposal and in accordance with their useof my games controller.

In the embodiment as a pure games controller the unit may be connectedvia this stem unit to a table mounting device, incorporating suchclamps, suckers, etc as required to enable secure mounting to a table orsuch.

In the embodiment as a connection to exercise equipment the stem mayconnect directly or via an adapter receiving/connecting bracket to fitto that particular type of SEB. This may be a full front support, orjust an adapter for the bars-bracket-where old bars were fitted, orwhere the old bars were cut and the system bolted thereto with astandard attachable kit.

If fitting to a roadworthy bicycle, modifies to behave as a stationaryexercise bicycle, a Trainer, the user would place the bicycle onexisting stand/trainer system, undo the standard handlebar stem bolt,remove the real bars, then bolt in the Handlebar System of my gamescontroller, which has at the base of it's stem a bracket/hole to mountthe real bars into while training with the system.

In all embodiments the user may then fit the Seat Unit, be it the Seatcover/New Seat or Complete Seat/Stem system and, in the case of fullexercise embodiment, then fit or connect the appropriate Active InputDevices and any remote Simulation Output devices to the existing bicycleor exercise equipment by the appropriate means. The software in themicroprocessors On-Screen Settings, and Display Settings, Screens may bethen used to configure the system to the appropriate settings for theuser, their equipment, their embodiment and their preferences.

Levers

The handlebar assembly may further include one or more levers which canbe operated by a user. Two such levers may be provided, one towards eachend of the handlebars. Each lever may be adapted to produce a respectiveinput signal dependent upon the position of the lever, i.e. its movementwhen pulled by the user.

The levers can be used to simulate the brakes of a bicycle. They maycomprise an actual brake lever attached to a suitable switch orpotentiometer to produce the input signal, or may be custom made andinclude an integral switch. These devices also provide the same featuresas the handlebar movable mechanisms.

The controller may be provided with one or more brake levers and asignal may be produced indicating that the user has moved the brakelever to apply the brakes. Again, this may be through an analoguemovement detection rheostatic lever devices—working through an analoguejoystick type device—joystick mounted within/by cable to the sprunghinge mechanisms in the left and right brake levers and is hinged aboutsame point as hinge mechanism and has flexible ends to preventknocks—measures the amount by which the user is applying the front andrear brakes. Optional connection from these to the Brake Shockmechanisms. This simply sends a copy of the output signal to theseshocks which vibrate to emulate brake judder. Comes built in/to beretro-fitted by user/as basic button/lever controlled pad/Snap Onattachments.

The preferred embodiment further provides two levers at the end of eachside of the handlebars to represent the normal front and back brakelevers of a real bicycle with all the functionality and features as perthe handlebar pivot mechanisms and pick-up means and methods. It is alsoenvisaged that two touch sensitive or digital button switches may beprovided instead of levers. They come in all the forms, methods andmeans as per all devices as described above, again, they may provideanalogue or digital signals as sensed by whatever sensory means, remoteor integral to the equipment or controller main body, communicated bywhatever communication means and can be integral, snap on, attachable orbasic. It is also a preferred embodiment that the lever mountings alsomount and house the System and Gaming Input Devices.

It should be noted that the system provides for handlebars that may haveonly six degrees of freedom, two are then provided by the pedals/brakes,two by buttons and two by seat sensors. In the system's application tocover control in any game, this still provides for realistic 6D control(3D rotational and 3D directional control). In a further embodimentwithout the seat unit, the levers may provide the X-axis directionalcontrol.

Dual Stage Resistance and Output

Each brake lever may produce a two stage “stepped” analogue outputsignal that initially simulates the levers taking up cable slack, thenmoving the brakes towards a wheel and then applying force to the wheelto slow the bicycle. The levers may include a variable resistance thatsimulates the different forces required during each stage of theapplication of the brakes. This may incorporate a dual stage, stepped aswell as progressive and analogue, resistance to pivoting and outputsthere-from. This simulates the real feel and control of brakeapplication. The first resistance stage may be very low and onlyslightly progressive over an initial range to simulate the slack/freeplay between the brake pad and the wheel rim. Further application willbe against the second stage of resistance/damping against stiffprogressively sprung, return to zero hinging mechanisms optionally withprogressive twist dampers. The sensor may send no signal over this firstrange, as the brakes are not applied yet. When the second stage isencountered, the lever moves the integral or connected joystick devicefrom zero through its full range therefore providing an analogue signalrepresentative of the brake pressure being applied by the user.

Like all the Control Input Devices, simulation is greatly enhanced, asis the level of mental involvement and distraction. Further upper body(grip) exercise is provided and the user can exercise greater technicaland freestyle control. This will help the user's braking knowledge,skill and confidence with regard to the proper application of the properbalance of front/back brake with the proper force. For example, whendescending a hill or in slippery conditions the user should apply mostlythe back brake. For freestyle this enables, endo's, pogos, etc.

Seat Unit

The controller may also include a seat or saddle assembly being a seatcover, replacement seat or a replacement seat post device. Theseat/saddle assembly may include one or more sensors which produce anoutput signal indicative of the weight exerted by the user on theseat/saddle. It may also produce an output signal when the user exerts aforce on the saddle to move it to the left or the right or up and down.The output produced due to left/right or up/down movement may appear tothe microprocessor-based unit to be the same as or a portion of thesignal produced by rotation or forward/backward movement of thehandlebars. This allows for this level of controllability with currentgames controller functionality. For example, the turning of thehandlebars may be configured to use a percentage of the range ofanalogue control of this input line, the seat left/right taking up adifferent range and both together a further range.

Seat—On/Off Input Device,

Seat—Weight Input Device,

This seat device provides further input devices adapted to produce asignal indicating whether or not a user is seated or is standing whenusing the exercise apparatus and/or a signal representative of the usersweight.

Rear Sidestep/Yaw Left/Right Inputs—Control About the Y-axis or Alongthe X-axis,

The seat cover or seat may provide further input devices responsive tothe user exerting force against them along a substantially horizontalaxis. This provides for provide for such left/right control inputs(substantially along the x-axis). An input device may be providedproducing a signal indicative of the left/right force against the seat.Further, a seat post may be provided that is adapted to movehorizontally relative to the support (substantially along the x-axis). Afurther input device may be provided which produces an output indicativeof the left or right movement of the seat. Specifically, this providesfor further or alternative realistic control of any object in a 3Dworld—ROTATIONALLY ABOUT THE Y AXIS or LINEARLY ALONG THE X AXIS. It maybe in place of the handlebar slide left/right function or augmenting it.In a bicycle simulation this provides for the “bum-steering” method ofcycle control, for rotational control while “in the air” and providesfor simulation of real world freestyle techniques.

Rear Lift Up/Push Down Inputs—Control About the X-axis or Along theY-axis,

Further, a seat post device may be provided that is adapted to movevertically relative to the support (substantially along the y-axis),perhaps also moving horizontally to provide the above seat left/rightinputs. A further input device may be provided which produces an outputindicative of the upward or downward movement of the seat. The user maytherefore push down or lift up the seat, i.e the rear of the bicycle.Simulating the user putting more weight through the seat, for instancewhen climbing on slippery surfaces, or lifting the rear of the cycle ina jump. This may also incorporate the seat on/off and weight functions.Specifically, this provides for further or alternative realistic controlof any object in a 3D world—ROTATIONALLY ABOUT THE X AXIS or LINEARLYALONG THE Y AXIS.

This may be a seat cover or replacement seat device, which incorporatethe Seat On/Off and Weight Active Input Device, and the Yaw left andright Control Input Devices. The seat/saddle assembly may include one ormore sensors which produce an output signal indicative of the weightexerted by the user on the seat/saddle. It may also produce an outputsignal when the user exerts a force on the saddle to move it to the leftor the right or lifts it up or pushes it down.

These input devices may specifically be flat, thin flexible digital oranalogue pressure sensitive pads built into the seat cover or seat. Thismay also be provided by a Seat/Seat Post device, which may suspend theseat, by pivots and or a compressible/extendible stem, to provide asuspension feel and measurement of sitting/lifting forces (thereforealso Weight and On/Off Seat), and may pivot, as per the handlebardevice, about a left/right angle, as depicted in the drawings, providingthe yaw control, whereby the seat can be moved in a left or rightdirection also. These are provided with all the functionality andfeatures as per the handlebar pivot mechanisms and pick-up means andmethods. The preferred embodiment of my games controller is aretrospectively fittable or integral, supported one-piece unit of suchmovable handlebars, including a stem, with remote wiring to the ActiveInput Devices, Simulation Output Devices and a Suspended Pivotable SeatUnit.

They function, work, communicate and may be provided in the same waysand means as described above for all devices and again can be bywhatever sensory, output and communication means and can be integral,snap on, attachable or basic.

The benefits of the Seat On/Off device are discussed earlier in theActive Input Devices section. With regard to the full controllability ofa simulated vehicle/object/user about and along all three dimensions,the Seat Left/Right device represents the 6^(th) dimension of control,that being Yaw, i.e. rotate left/right about a substantially verticalaxis. Significant in simulating while in the air turning the handlebarshas little effect.

Seat Unit—Pivoting, Extending, Compressing and Suspending Means

As discussed above, the seat may pivot left/right (“bum-steering”) andlift up/down (“seat lift/drop”) about pivots, extendable/compressiblestems and suspended seat housings, in such a manner as to realisticallyrepresent the seat based control inputs that a real mountain-bike ridermay perform. This would also simulate the feel of rear suspension on abicycle. The inputs referred to above may be a modified analoguejoystick device mounted within/by cable to the pivoting,extending/compressing or otherwise sliding mechanisms in the seat postor stem and is configured about same points as this movable mechanismand has flexible ends.

Full Unit Overall.

Taking the handlebar system, including the levers, and combining thiswith the seat unit, the real world mountain-biking (bike based) controlinputs are thus provided for, within removably attachable, upper-bodyexercising game controlling apparatus. This enables provision of suchsoftware as to properly simulate the physically and mentally challengingsport of mountain-biking. With regard to prior art, most only providesteering control, some provide up/down control but none provide for theweight shift, or yaw control. Most do not incorporate brake controleither. Some provide for seat control but this is instead of handlebarcontrol. Clearly the prior art are lacking in their controllability andability to simulate the real world control inputs required, thereforetheir ability to perform technical and freestyle training/gaming.

All the control inputs are independent of each other. It is envisagedthat all these movable means may also be incorporated into oneintegrated handlebar unit, which moves in all these directions and hasan extendable/compressible stem and one integrated seat unit. It shouldalso be understood that the structure as disclosed in the drawings is anexample structure, the pivots may be arranged in whatever manner mostappropriate to the designed use.

Twist Grips

These are normal analogue control potentiometer, similar to that foundin a joystick but specifically similar to the devices within a steeringwheel game controller, but providing for analogue, or digital, controlinput signals as proportionate to how much they may be twistedbackwards, or forwards. The twist grip may be provided in duplicate, tocover both front and rear derailleur selectors or to further enhancegame control. These alternative embodiments may be bespoke to each suchtwist grip or the device may allow selection of these alternativefeatures. They may be integrated with the equipment or removablyattached by whatever means.

This device functions, works and is provided in the same ways and meansas described above for all devices and, again, may provide analogue ordigital signals as sensed by whatever sensory means, remote or integralto the equipment or controller main body, communicated by whatevercommunication means, feeding directly or indirectly to the external andintegral microprocessor-based units integrated or removably attachable.

It maybe used to enhance use of the system in Game Only mode,replicating the twist grip accelerator control of a motorcycle tocontrol a throttle in any game. Or it may be used as a thrustforward/backward control. As discussed later, this may be of return tozero nature or may be static, ie movable but not returning, like aflight simulator style throttle control. As a further alternative thisdevice may provide for indexed positions about its degrees of freedom,similar to the twist grip style gear changing devices on mountain-bikesand therefore emulating them. This may of course simulate the twist gripgear changers and used accordingly.

Resistance, Springing and Damping Means—General

The handlebars turn left/right (“steering”), lift up/down(“jumping/ducking”), bank left/right and lean forward/backward (“weightdistribution”), and slide left/right (“side-step”), and the seat pivotsleft/right(“yaw”) and lifts up/squeezes down (“rear lift/drop”) about aseries of pivots, extendable/compressible stems and slidable housings,in such a manner as to realistically represent the control inputs that areal mountain-bike rider may perform. This would also simulate the feelof suspension on a bicycle. The handlebars also provide two levers,functionally front and back brakes, as above and 2way twist grip controldevices.

These movable mechanisms may be set up in such a manner as to requirerealistic body movements to control, with resistance and damping means,such as springs, dampers, centralisers and internal bump stops,incorporated to resist movement about any of these pivots so as toprovide for an integrated piece of upper body exercise equipment in itsown right as they require the user to expend energy to overcome thisresistance to move the device and to hold them in place against theresistances.

The resistance and damping about these devices may be by whatever meansbut generally by preset, user adjustable or automatically adjustable;progressively sprung, return to zero hinging or extending/compressingmechanisms with progressive dampers. The springs and dampers may beinternal or connected to the hinging mechanisms by whatever method,cable, hydraulic, etc. The springs may be of the twist, compress orstretch spring varieties or could be magnetic and should have preloadadjustment at least. They may also be provided by way of elastomers orother such material. The damping may also be by whatever means, by twistdampers, hydraulic dampers or whatever damping means and may beadjustable for compression and rebound damping.

Resistance and Damping Means—Free, Non Return

As a further novel feature, my games controller provides for analternative to the return to zero set up as described above in that oneor more of the handlebar control input devices may not be of the returnto zero nature but includes substantial, adjustable resistance tomovements without a return to zero function. The return to zero functionmay be disconnectable and may be automatically controllable by eithermicroprocessor. This will negate the need for the user to exert forceagainst the resistance to simply hold the control in place when movedaway from the central position. Sensors return the appropriate signalfor that position. This provides for a cheaper unit through omission ofthe springing features and also allows for more involved use in flightsimulation style games.

Resistance and Damping Means—Spinning, Non Return

As a further novel feature, my games controller provides for a furtheralternative to the return to zero set up as described above in that oneor more of the handlebar control input devices may not be of the returnto zero nature but may be “spinnable”, i.e. freely rotating through 360degrees. This function may be automatically controllable by eithermicroprocessor and may further be without the resistance. Theresistance, in the automatically controlled embodiment, may becontrolled so as to provide little or no resistance when the simulatedbike is in the air. This will again negate the need for the user toexert force against the resistance to simply hold the control in placewhen moved away from the central position but provides for a “freestyle”unit whereby the user may spin the bars as would be done in BMX stylefreestyle techniques. Sensors return the appropriate signal for theposition. This will broaden the appeal to children especially. If in afreestyle game the user spins the bars to improve a trick but fails tocatch them correctly before landing, the game may depict a crash.

Degree of Required Movements

As discussed above, the preferred embodiment has the handlebars set upin such a way as to require the user to make realistic body movements toinput the desired control signal. This will therefore provide a moreenjoyable, active and involving nature to the gaming side of thetraining program or game and fully represents the real world in terms ofthe movements, exertions and actions required to control a realmountain-bike. In the real sport, the rider must be quick and firm withtheir steering controls and weight distribution changes and must movetheir upper body over a large radius to successfully negotiate trickyterrain, this system enables full simulation of this. This providesgreater mental involvement and upper body exercise, distracting usersfrom their legs' exertions.

This degree of required movements, and also the provision of theresistance and damping means, also provides a greater variety in themuscle groups in the upper and lower body exercised and stretched by useof my games controller, e.g. Legs, Buttocks, Abdominal, Back, Sides,Arms, Shoulders and Neck. This functionality therefore transforms, e.g.the bicycle, into a cross trainer, capable of both aerobic (andanaerobic) and strength training. My games controller goes even one stepfurther by incorporating flexibility training also. Of major benefit isthe stretching of the posterior thigh and lower back, helping preventchronic lower back pain. The system therefore further provides an all inone exercise device that has aerobic and anaerobic exercise, via theexercise equipment, and strength and flexibility training, via thehandlebar, and seat and brake, systems. Note that the stems betweenmovable mechanisms may be adjustable for length, manually orautomatically by the computer. This may provide for user adjustment fortheir size and may further provide additional or alternative resistanceadjustment.

Resistance and Damping—Adjustable Means

As disclosed above, the resistances and/or damping against movement ofeach movable means may be preset or adjustable, this may be furtheradjustable by the user or automatically by the computer. Theadjustability of the resistance and damping also allow the equipment tobe matched to the user in terms of their size, weight or strength. AResistance Setting Reader type device may also be incorporated totherefore inform the microprocessor-based unit(s) of the resistance anddamping settings. In the automatic resistance/damping control systemsthis may serve to simulate steering feel, i.e. the effects of inertia,jumping, etc., or to simulate the terrain conditions or damage to thesimulated bicycle or whatever. The adjustable nature also serves to makethe resistances and damping low for when it is being used only as agames controller.

The value for money of the system comes by way of not only theinteractivity and superior games controller benefits but also by way ofproviding a pure upper body exercising apparatus also. The strength andflexibility training can be achieved through the pure control of thedevice in a game, whereby a simulated route may consist of such numerousturns, drops, etc. requiring such a number of repetitions of differenttwists, pushes, pulls, leans etc. as to provide a structured strengthand flexibility training program also.

The software may suggest manual increases in the resistance and/ordamping settings over time to therefore advance the training this waytoo. The software or instruction manual may also provide a pure strengthand flexibility training program whereby the user performs a certainnumber of repetitions and groups of repetitions of certain demonstratedexercises, whereby the user must sit or stand, hold the bars in acertain way and position, and pull, push, twist, lean, lift, push down,etc the handlebars and seat thereby exercising or stretching specificmuscle groups, as is the case with any piece of strength trainingequipment.

This provides for a fully interactive and progressive strength trainingapparatus. The user may “play” through the strength training games orBody Pump style programmes as referred to above. Now, not only does theuser receive a reading of their aerobic achievement, in time, distance,etc parameters, but can also get a reading on their strength trainingachievements, in terms of repetitions of each exercise, at whatresistances, and with what quality.

Resistance and Damping—Lockable Means

The handlebars may be also lockable about any or all of their degrees offreedom. The pivoting mechanisms include, or may be connected to, simplelocking devices that disable movement about these degrees of freedom.This may be by simple clips, levers, snaps, wing nuts or whatever means.They may be manual or computer-controlled, such that they may always belocked until connected to the computer, which may warn before unlockingthem, in accordance with the user's settings, perhaps selected by VoiceRecognised Input.

This feature is of significance when the user selects using the systemin Game Free mode, or using the “Autopilot” feature in the software,whereby the user purely powers the simulated bicycle, through any one ormore inputs, and all, or certain, direction, weight controls, jumps,etc. may be performed automatically by the computer. In Game Free mode,the system substantially upgrades the exercise equipment to a completecomputer controlled, monitored, and audited training system.

This brings all the benefits of the computer functionality with orwithout the external microprocessor-based unit. It makes the system moreattractive to the whole family, for them to use, as they desire. Maybethe parents, women, or older or medically motivated users may not wantto perform all the Control Inputs but still want the structured,monitored and audited training program, whereby they go through thecomputer dictated warm ups, variable resistances, zones, speeds,cadences, seating positions, upper body exercises, stretches, etc, withthe progressive nature.

Pedal Pressure Sensors

Further Control Input Devices are also disclosed by way of the PedalPressure Sensors. These devices may be sensors, by whatever meansproviding a analogue or digital signal, connected to, e.g. the flatsides of the pedals and inner side of the upper toe clips which senseand measure the pushing pressure being applied to the pedal in adownward motion and the pulling pressure from the pedal or against thetoe clip in an upward motion and communicate signals representativethereof to the microprocessor-based unit(s). They also therefore sensethe presence of the users feet on the pedals.

They function, work, communicate and may be provided in the same waysand means as described above for all devices and again can be bywhatever sensory, output and communication means and can be integral,snap on, or attachable. They can be connected in whatever way to Pedals,Toe Clips and/or Clipless style pedals, such as those manufactured byShimano and marketed under the SPD range, and measure the existence,timing and magnitude of the forces being applied through the pedals.They may be communicated to the external microprocessor-based unitand/or the internal microprocessor-based unit, which may code thesignal.

These devices greatly benefit the technical training side of the systemand can be used as a further measure/calibration system for theresistance setting. The main benefit however is that it thereforeenables training the user in real world “spinning” techniques wherebythe user pushes the pedals down and pulls them up again each time athigh rpms, a technique well known to cyclists. The microprocessor-basedunit(s) may make suggestions to the user as to their timings, to gettheir rhythm smooth, or as to the relative power of each leg. It alsoprovides for further technique and freestyle simulation. On a fast butsharp turn the user may take his foot out/of the pedals to simulateputting his or her foot out around the corner. It can also thereforesimulate the performance of tricks, jumps, etc where the user's feetcome away from the pedals.

Foot Down Sensors

Further Control Input Devices are also disclosed by way of the “FootDown” Sensors. These devices may be sensors, by whatever means providinga analogue or digital signal, e.g. floor pad pressure sensitive padsremotely connected to the unit which sense and measure the user puttingtheir left or right foot down to the floor proximate to the unit andcommunicate signals representative thereof to the microprocessor-basedunit(s). This is an example of a user-customised input, via arraydevice.

They function, work, communicate and may be provided in the same waysand means as described above for all devices and again can be bywhatever sensory, output and communication means. They can be connectedin whatever way to the system, and measure the timing, existence andmagnitude of the forces being applied by the user's feet on thesesensors. They may be communicated to the external microprocessor—and/orthe internal microprocessor, which may code the signal.

These devices greatly benefit the technical training and freestyle sideof the system. The microprocessor-based unit(s) may make suggestions tothe user as to their timings, to train the user in eg proper fastcornering techniques. On a fast but sharp turn the user may take hisfoot out/of the pedals to simulate putting his or her foot down aroundthe corner. No prior art disclose anything like this system.

Hands Off Sensors

Further Control Input Devices are also disclosed by way of the “HandsOff” Sensors. These devices may be sensors, by whatever means providinga analogue or digital signal, e.g. pressure sensitive hand grips,perhaps also housing the HRM, mounted at the end of each side of thehandlebars which sense and measure the user gripping the handlebar, i.e.hands on the bars, and communicate signals representative thereof to themicroprocessor(s).

They function, work, communicate and may be provided in the same waysand means as described above for all devices and again can be bywhatever sensory, output and communication means and can be integral,snap on, or attachable. They can be connected in whatever way to thesystem, and measure the timing, existence and magnitude of the forcesbeing applied through the handlebar grips. They may be communicated tothe external microprocessor-based unit and/or the internalmicroprocessor-based unit, which may code the signal.

These devices greatly benefit the technical training and freestyle sideof the system. The microprocessor-based unit(s) may make suggestions tothe user as to their timings, eg to prompt enhanced trick performance.It can therefore simulate the performance of tricks, jumps, etc wherethe user's hand(s) come away from the bars to perform a one-handed orno-handed trick. No prior art disclose anything like this system.

Gaming Input Devices

Whilst the active and control devices provide signals to theprocessor-based unit indicative of the normal movements of a user inperforming an exercise to mimic a sport, it is envisaged that in atleast one arrangement or more additional input devices may be provided.These additional inputs allow the user to provide signals to modify theprogram which are not a part of performing the exercise. They providethe interface for the fun/pure game controls but also for inputs unsafeto simulate (e.g. jumping the bike) and convert the users button pressesinto an input signal to be processed by the computer. They also providefor technique training in that the timing of the control will simulateactual times so as to enhance the user's knowledge of real worldtechniques and timing, even to learn freestyle techniques. They alsoenhance reaction times and therefore confidence for the real thing.

The Gaming Input devices cover the one or more user-button activatedcontrol inputs, providing the control inputs for the pure fun, standardcontroller and gaming side of the system which sense and measurepressure/inputs being applied thereto, by the user, and communicate asignal to the microprocessor-based unit(s) representative thereof. Theseare standard on any joystick or control pad, but are provided in mygames controller, providing the control inputs for the pure fun,standard controller and gaming side of the system. They also provide forthose inputs either not available in the embodiment/model owned by theuser, in accordance with the modular nature of the system, or for thosecontrol inputs which may be too hard or unsafe to emulate. They mayinitiate a new “mode” of control inputs to actions, or provide aspecific control for a specific action in the simulated world.

In one arrangement, again for apparatus including a cycle, one or moreof the following signals may be produced by the gaming input devicesprovided. Each input device comprises a simple button with the functionof each button being designated by software running on themicroprocessor based unit. For different programmes the buttons may havedifferent effects. My games controller provides for a plurality ofGaming input devices as may be required. In one embodiment, it providesfor four such button type controls, which are, by way of example only,disclosed as controlling, by the software:

GAME 1—Jump Command—a basic or touch sensitive switch device—workingthrough a button switch—switch mounted ergonomically within easy reachof user's hand into or beside the brake lever mounting clamps—activatesa circuit to command the “rider” to jump the bike, length of press torelease determines height (OR whatever control the software determines).Comes built in/to be retrofitted by user/Snap On attachments.

GAME 2—Duck Command—a basic or touch sensitive switch device—workingthrough a button switch—switch mounted ergonomically within easy reachof user's hand into or beside the brake lever mounting clamps—activatesa circuit to command the “rider” to duck down, length of press torelease determines duration (OR whatever control the softwaredetermines). Comes built in/to be retrofitted by user/Snap Onattachments.

GAME 3—Trick Command—a basic or touch sensitive switch device—workingthrough a button switch—switch mounted ergonomically within easy reachof user's hand into the brake lever mounting clamps—activates a circuitto command the “rider” to perform a trick (OR whatever control thesoftware determines). In Trick mode would be combined with the ControlInput Devices to simulate the trick being desired. Comes built in/to beretrofitted by user/Snap On attachments.

GAME 4—EXTRA—a basic or touch sensitive switch device—working through abutton switch—switch mounted ergonomically within easy reach of user'shand into the brake lever mounting clamps—activates a spare circuit. Canalso be used to power Exercise Free Games—on the CycleSim as a puregames controller—for Cycling, Motorcycling, Flying, etc. Comes builtin/to be retro-fitted by user/Snap On attachments.

Pluality.

Further such devices may be provided as may be required. One embodimentprovides for two such EXTRA touch sensitive buttons on each side of thehandlebars which may replace or augment the twist grips.

They come in all the forms, methods and means as per all devices asdescribed above, again, they may provide analogue or digital signals assensed by whatever sensory means, remote or integral to the equipmentcontroller main body, communicated by whatever communication means andcan be integral, snap on, attachable or basic, feeding directly orindirectly to the external and integral microprocessor-based units viathe integral and industry standard electronics and may be integratedwith the equipment or removably attached by whatever means. Theyrepresent input devices which detect a further range of inputs availableto the user, which are designated the Gaming input controls, those auser may desire or may be required for Game Only use. They may be setwithin this upper body exerciser and simulator via integrated standardcomponents in the handlebars, connected by cables to the handlebars ormay be integrated into Handlebar Grip Covers and Housings, Seat Coversand Units and/or Basic Controllers.

The Gaming Input Devices may be simple analogue, digital or touchsensitive button control switches or may be thumbstick devices, wiredinto the appropriate location within the components of my gamescontroller. They may be remote to main unit and the preferred embodimentof my games controller mounts them ergonomically, for easy use, withinthe housings surrounding the brake lever clamps. The user can thereforeoperate them with his/her thumb, which therefore leaves the fingers freeto operate the levers. They may even be inputs controlled by thevoice-recognition device as described later. The wiring from thesecontrols is as per industry standard controllers' electronics. They maybe connected integrally/snap on/by Velcro/etc means.

The Gaming Input Devices provide for further control of a simulated userthrough the simulated environment. The preferred embodiment provides forthe common inputs as may be required by the software in controlling acycle racing and freestyle based simulation game. This opens the Gamingand fun nature of the product to being able to control further aspectsof the software being used. In conjunction with all other componentsthey therefore provide for an extremely novel and complete controlmechanism for any system, not just for use as a standard gamescontroller but a significantly enhanced one. If the Active and ControlInput Devices cover all movements in a 3D world, these may controlshooting commands, looking commands, pick-up commands, control modecommands, etc in accordance with the software and as direct control orvia an input/output mapping process within the integralmicroprocessor-based unit. They may also be controlled in terms of theiroutput mapping/levels in accordance with a threshold function within theintegral microprocessor-based unit, as discussed further later.

The example disclosed discusses Jump and Duck commands. It is envisagedthat the Handlebars being lifted, or pushed, vertically up, or down mayof course, control these inputs. The example disclosed is an embodimentwith only three sets of handlebar control inputs, to therefore reducethe cost of the example disclosed. These commands are the software'sinterpretation of the control signal from the gaming input device. The“Jump” and “Duck” buttons are examples whereby the software reads thisas a discrete control input, i.e. to perform a specific action. The“Trick” button may be such that it induces a complete new map ofinput/action commands. This therefore would double the range of controlcommands available to the user. Further Gaming Input Devices may also beconnected, such as pressure sensitive sensors in the handgrips of thehandlebars, which would be used in freestyle techniques to control thesimulated rider taking either hand away from the bars.

EXTRA—Dual Purpose

The “EXTRA” button is of more significance as a discrete “Fire” buttonhowever, it is envisaged that these Gaming Input Devices may be inparallel, or series, with any other input device or that the integralmicroprocessor-based unit may map it to do so. For example, the Cadencesignal may be wired through the industry standard electronics to the “X”button wiring of the Sony Playstation, which commonly controls a Fire orAccelerate function in many games. The “EXTRA” button here may beconfigured in parallel with the Cadence Input Device such that the usercould simply press this button to input through this line.Microprocessor based unit(s) would be able to detect use of the “EXTRA”button to therefore detect “cheating”. This would allow the users totake a break but still play the game. This may obviously however inhibitadvancement to the next game/fitness level.

Plurality & Loom Array

The loom/array device provides for such a plurality of gaming inputdevices, as well as augmenting or providing for alternatives to control,active, system and simulation devices, to enable the user to connect anysuch connectable input or output device as they require.

Simulation Output Devices

As well as input devices, that provide inputs to the microprocessorbased unit one or more output devices may be provided. The outputdevices may include one or more switches, activators or the like thatprovide for physical feedback from the programme running on the unit tothe user to simulate events such as skids, knocks, falls, judders, etc.They provide the feedback mechanisms to help the user feel the effectsof his techniques to help improve technique and to improve gameinvolvement. They are mounted within the controller and/or on hingingmechanisms to help improve the realworld feel by providing greaterforces around these pivots. They also cover automatic resistance tensionsetting and steering feel simulators. All may be controlled by theintegral or external microprocessor.

The microprocessor-based unit may be further adapted to produce anoutput signal to an actuator or more than one actuator to controlmovement or other parameters of the exercise device responsive to theprogramme running on the unit.

For example, the output signal may be adapted to instruct the exercisedevice to increase resistance to the user performing a particularmovement. In the case of an exercise bicycle, this may be to make itharder to pedal or easier to pedal depending on the programme that isrunning.

Alternatively, the output signal may operate an actuator which vibrates,thumps or knocks at least a part of the exercise cycle or other exercisedevice, for instance to simulate rough terrain or other obstacles. Thedisplay may, for instance, show that a simulated “bicycle” routeincludes rough terrain and move the actuators to simulate the feel ofsuch rough terrain.

One or more of these devices may be connected to the exercise equipment,and/or around the handlebar and seat units, and are controlled by themicroprocessor-based unit(s) to enhance the realism of the simulatedexperience and provide feedback to the user as a consequence of theirinputs/actions in a tangible/tactile manner. This therefore provides forvisual (via the display), aural (via the display's speakers) and tactile(via these devices) sensory stimulation to the user. The user providesthe smell/taste.

These devices are actuators, i.e. motors, pulleys, twisters, thumpers,vibrators, gas cylinders, hydraulic or magnetic systems, or whateveractuating means which are fed a control signal by themicroprocessor-based unit(s) either directly or via a coded signal fromthe microprocessor-based unit(s), read, “decoded” and by a De-Coderdevice (the “3D Shock Box”) as discussed below. They may, of course, becontrolled directly, being dependent on the microprocessors abilities.

De/Coder Device

This De-Coder device may be a simple microprocessor-based unit, or bewithin, or a function of the integral microprocessor-based unit, readingor sending analogue and/or digital “coded” signals between integral andexternal microprocessor-based units, or control signals to actuators,vibrators, etc. This “decodes” a single control signal into a pluralityof further output control signals from this De-Coder unit to theactuators, vibrators, etc. This decoded signal instructs the De-Coderunit to activate, and/or deactivate, the appropriate outputs, at acertain frequency and magnitude or to a certain position. This De-Coderdevice may also function as a Coder input device taking a plurality ofinputs and combining them by a Coding process into one coded input tothe external microprocessor-based unit.

The power to these units may be fed from the microprocessor-based unitdirectly or may be boosted/powered internally by the system from itspower source. They function, work, communicate and may be provided inthis way and in the same ways and means as described above for alldevices. Again, they can be by whatever sensory, output andcommunication means and can be integral, snap on, attachable or basicand may be integral or connected about the exercise device.

They provide added realism and enable physical feedback and control tothe user/of the equipment by the microprocessor-based unit(s). Thisprovides more distractions and motivations for the user, through theresistance adjustments and tactile sensations, and provides for greaterinvolvement by the user having more inputs to process. Hills, winds,surfaces, jumping, etc and knocks, skids, judders, vibrations, damageetc can all be simulated in real time physically via these devices (i.e.the resistance adjusters and actuators respectively).

Tactile Simulation/Feedback—Shock Units

The “Shock” units (vibrators, thumpers, etc.) are the devices beingactuators, i.e. motors, pulleys, twisters, thumpers, vibrators, gascylinders, hydraulic systems, or whatever actuating means, etc., fittedto the exercise, handlebar or seat units, which actually move theseunits, knock them, vibrate them, etc to provide tactilesensations/feedback to the user.

They work as explained in detail above and come in all the forms,methods and means as per all input devices as also described above.Again, they may be controlled by analogue or digital signalscommunicated by whatever communication means, directly or indirectly bythe microprocessor-based unit(s), and/or input devices (for example, thebrake shock may be activated by the external microprocessor-based unitbut may be turned off internally to the system by the brake being fullyreleased). They can be remote or integral to the equipment or controllermain body, and can be snap on, attachable or basic. It is also apreferred embodiment that these devices would be integral to thehandlebar and seat units. It is also a preferred embodiment of my gamescontroller that this system is modular in nature in that it can beretrospectively added to the system.

In one example it is envisaged that one or more of eight main modularsimulation devices may be provided covering:

-   Front Handlebar Mounted—3D—Vibrators, Thumpers and Actuators,-   Rear Seat Mounted—3D—Vibrators, Thumpers and Actuators,-   Front Equipment Mounted—3D—Vibrators, Thumpers and Actuators,-   Rear Equipment Mounted—3D—Vibrators, Thumpers and Actuators,    3D Shock*Front and 3D Shock*Rear—

Computer/console controlled devices in conjunction with a signal readerand converter system—working through vibrator motors and “Bell Type”thumpers which are fed a signal from the signal reader/converter system,console sends pulsed signal, unit reads and sends appropriate power toappropriate shock unit for appropriate duration or turning them on andoff and changing magnitudes and frequencies—front self containedsub-control unit mounted onto handlebars and rear self contained unitmounted under the (optionally hinged) seat to provide greater force,both powered by system controller main body which is self powered bymains/battery—reads the signal(s) from the computer/console and convertsthe signal into separate signals to be sent to differentvibrator/thumper units to emulate knocks/judders/etc around left/rightside shocks, front/rear shocks, top/bottom shocks, andfront/rear/left/right judder vibration shocks. Comes built in/to beretro-fitted by user.

Front—3D Damage, Brake, Tyre & Surface Feel—Vibrators, Thumpers andActuators,

Rear—3D Damage, Brake, Tyre & Surface Feel—Vibrators, Thumpers andActuators,

Any other as may be required.

These output devices may comprise a controller controlled judderdevices—working through vibrator motors which are fed one or moresignals from either microprocessor based unit and/or reading appropriatepower to front and rear brakes and sends appropriate power toappropriate shock unit for appropriate duration or turning them on andoff and changing magnitudes and frequencies to emulate brake judder,damage and tyre/surface feel—front self contained unit mounted ontohandlebars and rear self contained unit mounted under the (optionallyhinged) seat to provide greater force, both powered by system controllermain body which is self powered by mains/battery—reads the signal(s)from either microprocessor brake controls and copies the signal toappropriate vibrator units to emulate judders from braking. Also linkedto an input device to relate signal to speed. Comes built in/to beretro-fitted by user.

These simulations/feedback methods provide greater realism, enjoymentand interactive feedback from the microprocessor-based unit to the userto help them enhance their technical skills, providing a further meansfor the user to understand the consequences of their actions.

In terms of realism, for example, if braking too hard at the back wheelthe rear brake shock may vibrate and/or judder to emulate a skid. Theuser may wish this to happen or my not and knows therefore to releasethe brake. As a further example, the simulated rider may be travellingover grass, very little sensations may be felt, then he/she move onto arocky path, the front and rear tyre shocks may vibrate to emulate thebumpy surface conditions.

In terms of feedback to the user on technical issues, if the simulatedworld depicts a cyclist descending a steep hill, if the user's inputswere that they were still sat on the seat, leaning over the front of thebike and using the front brake only, the unit may vibrate the unit atthe front to depict the front tyre skidding, if the user releases thebrake it may stop vibrating but unless the user moves their weight overthe back wheel by pulling back on the bars the display may depict acrash and the whole bicycle mat move, vibrate and thump. On screensuggestions may be made in a training mode to instruct the user. Thiswill enrich the experience, providing for technical training and greaterinvolvement.

Resistance Tension or Incline Adjusters—Exercise Equipment

Simulation/Control—Resistance, Incline, etc Setting Adjuster(s)Computer/console controlled device with a signal reader and convertersystem—working through, for example, motors and pulleys which are fed asignal from the signal reader/converter system, console sends pulsedsignal, unit reads and sends appropriate power and signal to the unitwhich increases/decreases the tension setting on the flywheel pads—selfcontained unit mounted onto headtube/handlebar adapter powered by systemcontroller main body which is self powered by mains/battery—reads thesignal from the computer/console and converts the signal into a signalto a motorised tension controller which automatically adjusts theExercise Bike's resistance tension setting on the flywheel pads toemulate going uphill, downhill, through soggy ground, etc. Comes builtin/to be retro-fitted by user/connected to existing device.

This simulation output device is a system, connected to the output ofthe microprocessor-based unit(s) that read signal(s) there-from, andadjust the resistance/exercise setting(s) of the exercise equipment inaccordance with this signal. Primarily it may control the resistancesetting on the equipment controlling how hard it is to pedal, row, run,step, etc but may also cover the inclination level of the equipment orwhatever other exercise adjustment means may be relevant.

Resistance Setting Adjusters, Actuators or Communicators,

Incline Setting Adjusters, Actuators or Communicators,

Any other as may be required.

These may be or include motorised units being actuators, i.e. motors,pulleys, twisters, thumpers, vibrators, gas cylinders, hydraulicsystems, magnetic mechanisms, or whatever actuating means (possiblysimple connection to any existing automatic means), etc. They may beattached to the exercise device and actually move these units, otherwisecontrol them to alter the resistance setting. They work as explained indetail above with reference to Simulation Output Devices overall andcome in all the forms, methods and means as per all input devices asalso described above. Again, they may be controlled by analogue ordigital signals communicated by whatever communication means, directlyor indirectly by the microprocessor-based unit(s) and/or input devices.They can be remote or integral to the equipment or controller main body,and can be snap on, electronic connector (and possibly communicator) orattachable. This may be by way of a connection to an existing manual orautomatic device, a replacement of the existing manual or automaticdevice, communicate with the existing automatic device or be integratedinto the equipment form new. It is a preferred embodiment of my gamescontroller that this system is modular in nature in that it can beretrospectively added to the system.

This provides for further added realism in the system, for example, ifthe simulated world depicts going up a hill, the user will feel theincrease in resistance through the exercise device automatically. It cansimulate increases and decreases in resistance to exercise as a resultof simulated hills, surfaces, winds, drafting, etc in the simulatedworld and as a result of the user changing the selected gears on asimulated bicycle. It also provides for the provision of a completelycomputer controlled, structured varied exertion training programme. Thismay provide resistances on a pure simulation basis, anexertion-adjustable simulation basis, a pure exertionary basis, ormanually, all by the user's choice through the integral or externalmicroprocessor-based unit's software. The exertion dependent controlfunctions may be as a function of any or a culmination of the ActiveInput Devices' inputs in isolation or as against targets, as isdiscussed further under the “Threshold” section. Again, this is a keydifferentiator from the prior art in this regard as they are eitheruncontrollable or are part of a preset closed loop exertion controlledresistance system, generally responsive to heart rate or cadence only.As explained above, this restriction in the control of resistancesettings prevents those with the ability and or desire to push harderfrom doing so.

It is implicit in the provision of such a versatile controller that theresistance-adjusting devices may be operated and controlled in any mode;Bespoke Game, Any Game, Game Free and Game Only mode, as they may becontrollable by either microprocessor-based unit.

Steering Feel/Auto-Handlebar Resistance/Damping/RTZ Simulators

One or more additional output devices may be provided which vary theresistance to movement of the handlebar assembly, or brakes or seat, inresponse to signals produced by the microprocessor based unit. This maybe used to simulate the effects of inertia on the system . It may workby reading the input signal from a speed and/or cadence sensor tocalculate speed and from this generating a signal that is used tooperate one or more motors which drive a weighted flywheel operativelyconnected to the handlebar, or brakes or seat, assembly to emulate theeffects of the inertia of a real bike's wheels on the stiffness/actionof the handlebars. Alternatively, one or more motors or actuators maysimply adjust the tension of the springs/clamps/dampers/etc on thehandlebar assembly hinging mechanisms or adjusting the length of thestems therein—self contained unit mounted onto handlebars/bottom of headtube (pivoting with left right control) or self contained units withinthe Control Input Devices hinging mechanisms, both powered by systemcontroller main body which is self powered by mains/battery—reads thesignal(s) from a speed sensor and copies the signal to appropriate motorunits to emulate inertia effect/feel on controls. Comes built in/to beretro-fitted by user.

These simulation output devices are a system connected to the output ofthe microprocessor-based unit(s) that read signal(s) there-from andadjusts the resistances to movement about the handlebar, brakes and seatmechanisms.

This may be provided by motorised flywheel devices within/connected tothe handlebars or by automatically adjusting the resistance setting(s)of any one or more of the handlebar/seat pivot mechanisms in accordancewith this signal. Primarily they adjust the speed of the flywheels orcontrol the resistance, preload, compression and rebound dampingsetting(s), stem lengths or return to zero properties of these pivots,stems, sliders, etc, controlling how hard it is to turn, bank, lift,slide or lean the handlebars, brakes or seat.

-   Weight Forward/Backward (Pitch) Resistance/Damping/RTZ Adjusters,-   Turn Left/Right (Steer) Resistance/Damping/RTZ Adjusters,-   Weight Left/Right (Bank) Resistance/Damping/RTZ Adjusters,-   Two Lever (Brake) Resistance/Damping/RTZ Adjusters,-   Sidestep Left/Right Resistance/Damping/RTZ Adjusters,-   Lift Up/Push Down Resistance/Damping/RTZ Adjusters,-   Seat—Yaw Left/Right Resistance/Damping/RTZ Adjusters,-   Seat—Lift Up/Push Down Resistance/Damping/RTZ Adjusters,

Any other as may be required, eg about the twist grip.

These may be or include units being actuators, i.e. motors, pulleys,twisters, thumpers, vibrators, gas cylinders, hydraulic systems,magnetic mechanisms, or whatever actuating means (possibly simpleconnection to any existing automatic means or through adjustment of stemlengths), etc. They may be attached to, connected to or form an integralpart of these pivot units and/or the resistance and damping mechanismsconnected thereto. They work as explained in detail above with referenceto Simulation Output Devices. Again, they may be controlled by analogueor digital signals communicated by whatever communication means,directly or indirectly by the microprocessor-based unit(s) and/or inputdevices. It is a preferred embodiment of my games controller that thissystem is modular in nature in that it can be retrospectively added tothe system.

This provides for further added realism in the system, for example,increasing the resistance settings as a function of speed to simulatethe effects of inertia on a cycle or reducing the resistances if thesimulated front wheel is in the air, even adjusting the return to zeroproperties. This is especially apparent in mountainbiking andmotorcycling and the provision of such a feature within my gamescontroller may add to the technical training enabled. Technical trainingin the principles of opposite lock steering, banking and “bum steering”methods, as are common in the motorcycling and mountain-biking worlds,is therefore enabled and simulated. They can also be used to simulatethe effects of simulated damage to the cycle. They may also control thelocking mechanisms as discussed above.

They also provide for the provision of a completely computer controlled,structured varied exertion training programme with respect to the upperbody exercising virtues of my games controller. This may provideresistances on a pure simulation basis, an exertion-adjustablesimulation basis, a pure exertionary basis, or manually, all by theuser's choice through the integral or external microprocessor-basedunit's software. The exertion dependent control functions may be as afunction of any or a culmination of the Active Input Devices' inputs inisolation or as against targets, as is discussed further under the“Threshold” section. Again, this is a key differentiator from the priorart as none provide for computer controllable upper body exercise.

It is implicit in the provision of the integral microprocessor-basedunit that the resistance-adjusting devices may be operated andcontrolled in any mode; Full Game, Any Game, Game Free and Game Onlymodes, as they may be controllable by either microprocessor-based unit.The resistance adjuster referred to above may be controlled by theexternal microprocessor-based unit while these resistance adjustmentdevices may be controlled wholly or partially internally by the integralmicroprocessor-based unit, maybe as a pure function of speed. It is alsobeneficial in Game Only mode whereby the resistances may be reduced tominimum levels for this purpose.

Fan—Wind Simulator

The apparatus may further include a fan that is controlled by themicroprocessor based unit. The fan speed may be increased as the usersspeed increases to simulate the effect of wind upon the user.

The variable speed electric fan, connected to the output of themicroprocessor-based unit(s), adjusts or controls the speed, andpossibly direction (via actuators), of the fan in accordance with thissignal.

The fan and actuators may be attached to, connected to or form anintegral part of the system. They work as explained in detail above withreference to Simulation Output Devices. Again, they may be controlled byanalogue or digital signals communicated by whatever communicationmeans, directly or indirectly by the microprocessor-based unit(s) and/orinput devices. It is a preferred embodiment of my games controller thatthis system is modular in nature in that it can be retrospectivelyadded.

This provides for further added realism in the system, for example,increasing the fan speed as a function of speed to simulate thewind/user's simulated speed, as is one of the pleasures of real cycling.The user may sense the fan speed up and therefore be aware that theresistance may be about to increase also, automatically or throughinstruction and manual setting, due to cycling into a simulatedheadwind. This may be controlled on a pure simulation basis, anexertion-adjustable simulation basis, a pure exertionary basis, ormanually, all by the user's choice through the integral or externalmicroprocessor-based unit's software. The exertion dependent controlfunctions may be as a function of any or a culmination of the ActiveInput Devices' inputs in isolation or as against targets, as isdiscussed further under the “Threshold” section. It provides for anexertion dependent cooling breeze or wind.

Again the fan may be controlled in any mode; Full Game, Any Game, GameFree and Game Only modes, as it is controllable by eithermicroprocessor-based unit. The resistance adjusters referred to abovemay be controlled by the external microprocessor-based unit while thismay be controlled wholly or partially internally by the integralmicroprocessor-based unit, maybe as a pure function of speed.

System Control Devices

In addition or in alternative to the Gaming Input Devices above, theinput device may produce signals that are used to run the control sideof the systems. They provide the interface for the purely digitalcontrol of the games and provide an interface to convert user controlinto an output signal to be processed by the computer.

The user may wish to lock the Control Input Devices and control the“rider” through these instead, therefore they can select controldevices. NOTE—in the Snap On systems, the directional controlbuttons/joysticks ARE the Control Input Devices.

This group also includes the optional Readout Unit which gives normaldigital readouts on speed, cadence, heart rate, on seat, time, elapsedtime, etc. Further devices are also included, all these are discussedunder the System Control Heading following.

System Input Devices

The System Input devices may be any one or more further button activatedor joystick style control inputs, for the overall control of themicroprocessor-based unit, controls and or software being used, whichsense and measure pressure/inputs being applied thereto, by the user,and communicate a signal to the microprocessor-based unit(s)representative thereof as standard on any joystick or control pad, asprovided in my games controller. They cover the control inputs for theoverall control of microprocessor-based unit, controls and or softwarebeing used. They provide for the additional controls that may berequired to enable full operation of the microprocessor-based unit(s)remotely from the handlebars or for control of different modes withinthe handlebar system, e.g. Start, and Pause (for overall control withina game), Up, Down, Left, Right, and Select (for selection controlthrough option screens and menus), analogue, digital, (for control ofinput/output modes and internal settings). These control functionalitiesmay be provided for both internal and external microprocessor-basedunits. They would essentially provide for all such commands as providedon the external microprocessor-based unit's original equipmentcontroller and may even include a keyboard, pointer, mouse-pad or mouse.

The System Input Devices provide for the additional controls that may berequired to enable full operation of the microprocessor-based unit(s)remotely from the handlebars or for control of different modes withinthe handlebar system. This provides for electronic option selectionthrough different option screens, internally and externally from theremote position of the exercise equipment. They may be used to enter thepersonal information, preferences, passwords, etc of the user orchanging views on screen, pausing the game and starting it, mappinginputs and outputs, etc. They may even be used as further Gaming InputDevices. The directional buttons may, as stated earlier, even be usedinstead of the handlebars, and vice versa, so that a user could play thegame fully but without all the upper body exercise. This functionalityand the provision of such system controls remotely are not provided inthe prior art.

They come in all the forms, methods and means as per all devices asdescribed above, again, they may provide analogue or digital signals assensed by whatever sensory means, remote or integral to the equipmentcontroller main body, communicated by whatever communication means andcan be integral, snap on, attachable or basic, feeding directly orindirectly to the external and integral microprocessor-based units viathe integral and industry standard electronics and may be integratedwith the equipment or removably attached by whatever means. They may becommunicated via the standard input/output lead or may be provided byway of a further, standard, connection lead or may be provided throughthe overall input/output lead which simply contains an additionalstandard lead for that device. A switch box may be further provided toenable the user to manually, or the computer to automatically, selecttheir standard, eg keyboard, or that mounted on their exerciseapparatus.

They may be set within this upper body exerciser and simulator viaintegrated standard components in the handlebars, connected by cables tothe handlebars or may be input devices integrated into Handlebar GripCovers and Housings, and/or Basic Snap On or Basic Controllers. In thesimple Snap On and Basic systems, without the handlebar system, thesesystem control devices may even be the control input devices as well.

The System Input Devices may be simple analogue, digital or touchsensitive button control switches and directional control devices, wiredinto the appropriate location within the components of my gamescontroller. They may be remote to main unit and the preferred embodimentof my games controller mounts them within the housings surrounding thebrake lever clamps and at the top of the system's stem. They may even beinputs controlled by the voice-recognition device as described later.The wiring from these controls is as per industry standardcontrollers'electronics. They may be connected integrally/snap on/byVelcro/etc means.

In one example there may be one or more of eight main input devicesprovided covering: four such joystick type controls and three suchbutton type controls, which are, by way of example only, disclosed inthe embodiment designed for control of a Sony Playstation.

UP, DOWN, LEFT, and RIGHT Commands—

These input devices comprise basic switch devices, such as touchsensitive switches, or analogue movement direction rheostatic leverdevices (Snap On Systems)—working through button switches OR analoguejoystick type devices—switches/joystick mounted ergonomically withineasy reach of user's hand into the brake lever mounting clamps—activatecircuits to command the computer/console to move (an object/cursor) Up,Down, Left and Right (OR whatever control the software determines)(Digitally or via Analogue Signal). Analogue System can be switched todigital, also works so analogue for gaming/digital for menu screens.Comes built in/to be retro-fitted by user/Snap On attachments.

SELECT Command

PAUSE/START Command

Analogue System Control/LED—

Basic or touch sensitive switch devices—working through buttonswitches—switches mounted ergonomically within easy reach of user's handonto the top of the handlebar stem—activate circuits to command thecomputer/console to Start/Select/Pause (OR whatever control the softwaredetermines) AND to switch between handlebar, analogue, digital control(with setting readout LED). Comes built in/to be retro-fitted byuser/Snap On attachments.

These would satisfy all system control requirements for both thePlaystation and the integral processor (via the integral display).

The present invention further provides for the following input devicesas explained further below with regard to System Control Devices

-   Keyboard-   Pointer-   Microphone-   Camera-   Graphical/Audio Overlay Input/Output-   Communications Input/Output    SYSTEM CONTROL and OPTIONAL DEVICES

The System Control devices are the components integrated into thehandlebar system to primarily enable the system to operate in Any Gameand Game Free modes, and further functionalities overall, as discussedfurther below.

They may be integral to the handlebar system and:

-   -   Provide the means for reading and storage of programs and data.    -   Enable operation of the system as a stand alone interactive        training system.    -   Measure signals and readings, set targets, and compare actual        inputs against planned.    -   Process the multi-input-output threshold systems.    -   And programmable input/output relationships.    -   Provide the De-Coder system.    -   Instructing changes in resistances or control resistance        controllers.    -   Display all information.    -   Voice recognition.    -   Produce sounds.    -   Image process.    -   Communicate with external microprocessor-based unit and memory        means.        READOUT Unit—Integral Power, Memory, Microprocessor-based Unit,        Display and Speaker Devices        Display/Speaker Means

Digital readout, and optional speakers, device—OPTIONAL—works through amicroprocessor taking readings from the Active Input Devices coupledwith an internal clock—mounted onto the handlebar stem—this gives normaldigital readouts on speed, cadence, heart rate, on seat, time, elapsedtime, average speed, Max Min Heart Controls, etc. as per normal exercisemachines.

The display and speakers may be an integral part of or be attachable tothe handlebar system or exercise device to display all information fromthe internal clock, microprocessor-based unit, inputs and memory. Thismay include readouts for target and actual times, speeds, rpms, heartrates, seat statuses, resistances, etc (and may even provide forhandlebar movement target and actual indicators) textually and/orgraphically. It may include general text/numerical display means also toenable system control. It may also depict a training program histogramdepicting the target input readings graphically over time which may alsoinclude a representation of the user's progression along this programand that of a simulated opponent, representing the graphical depictionof cumulative and/or current exertion/success levels as against thatrequired.

The display may be in whatever form, LEDs, LCD, CRTs, handheld units,etc. The integral microprocessor-based unit measures the input signalsand reads the memory, calculates the required information there-from anddisplays it through the display and speaker means.

An optional device will contain a connection to the console's memorycard unit which will replicate the memory card slot but within thecontroller main body. This will also function as a control unit for GameFree training whereby the user's current fitness/game level's settingsare stored in the memory card. This will store the current level'sresistance tension settings, seating commands, required speeds andcadence and enable the Exercise

Bike to be run stand alone as a pure automated trainer but with thegame's training level progression. This memory may also, additionally oralternatively, be fully integral.

Also optional may be a complete heart rate monitor system which may bebuilt in to the readout unit. This will store the user's criticalinformation providing for proper zone training, giving accurate caloriecounts, fitness indices, etc. Again to provide for game free trainingalso.

The controller may include a microprocessor and thus form a completeintegrated system. No other external microprocessor based unit will thenbe required and signals from the input devices may be passed to thisintegral microprocessor.

These devices may come in any available form, may be remote or integralto the equipment controller main body, communicated by whatevercommunication means and can be integral, modular, snap on, or attachableby whatever means. The system of all input and output devices may beintegrated with these System Control devices, i.e. Input and OutputDevices' signals may be direct through to/from an externalmicroprocessor-based unit but copied to the internalmicroprocessor-based unit, or the signals from the input/to the outputdevices may be via the integral microprocessor-based unit to/from theexternal microprocessor-based unit.

The integral microprocessor-based unit, with integral clock, isconnected to all the inputs, outputs, memory and display and may haveit's own power source and back up batteries. This enables the Game Freeand Any Game modes of operation. They also provide for the standardreadouts as given by any computer controlled exercise apparatus. Thereis no benefit in exploring further the mechanisms of themicroprocessor-based unit, memory means and display means as they arewell known to those knowledgeable in the art.

Memory Means—Multi Functionality

The memory may be fully integral or simply a remote connection of astandard memory card, as used in many games consoles, to the internaland external microprocessor-based units or a direct communication linewith the external microprocessor-based unit's memory.

It may store actual program code, settings data, historic data, trainingprogram data, or whatever information is relevant to the embodiment interms of the User, the Equipment and the Game/Training Program.

User information may include their age, sex, weight, height, bloodpressure, heart rate zones, fitness level, activity level, preferences,training diary, etc. The Equipment information may include the type ofequipment, the features present, the calibration settings, theresistance adjustment control method, etc. The Game/Training informationmay store the current “game” position and “high scores” (in the same wayas current games consoles and computers do) and or it may include a fullor certain future training program routines or methods to enable theuser to still set or work their way through their training program withor without the external microprocessor-based unit. Obviously lessinformation is needed as the external microprocessor-based unit anddisplay may be used to cost-effectively provide the powerful graphic andaural stimulation, control the tactile stimulation and run the fullsimulation.

The integral memory may hold the training program in terms of trainingmaps; the achieved/required speeds, rpms, resistances, zones, seatingpositions, etc. over time past, present or future.

The integral and external memory means may further be able tosynchronise with each other through communication and synchronisationprograms written into the microprocessor-based units'memory andsoftware, or simply via common password mechanisms.

Power Means

The integral systems may have their own power source and back upbatteries. In simpler embodiments this may be provided via the externalmicroprocessor. Internal power enables full stand alone functionalityand also provides for greater power to be provided to the ResistanceControllers, Incline Controllers, Actuators, Vibrators, Thumpers, etc.

Multi Modal Operability

One of the main features and benefits of my games controller is that itcan be used in a variety of ways. It may be used to run bespoke exerciseor simulation software (Bespoke Exercise/Gaming) or it can be used toplay any other games (Any Game & Train), whereby the users exertions maybe combined to power the accelerator or fire commands of that game.Further, it can be purely used as a state of the art games controller(Game Only), as per the first aspect overall. It is the input/outputstructure of my games controller, along with the internalmicroprocessor-based unit for additional features, which makes theseoptions possible. These are discussed further in accordance with thethird aspect.

Pure Game Play Functionality—Game Only Mode

In accordance with the first aspect, the game only functionality of mygames controller is provided by my controller being a I/O controller inits most basic form, as described fully earlier. It also provides forbetter value for money due to this multi functionality. In this mode thesystem is a pure games controller that has the benefit of real inputmechanisms, like the steering wheel type controllers available for mostplatforms, and a stable base, unlike most games controllers. This alsoprovides for exercise free training at the technical side of the cyclegame. In the embodiment disclosed in the drawings, the EXTRAanalogue/digital or touch sensitive button may be readily used for gameonly mode. This would, for example, take the cadence or speed circuit,or whatever circuit it is configured to, and gives this circuit fullmanual control through this button which would commonly be or be set upto be the accelerator/fire/etc. button, without needing the user toexercise.

Stand Alone Equipment Upgrade Functionality—Game Free Mode

The above devices in combination and in conjunction with exerciseapparatus, Active and System Input Devices and Simulation OutputDevices, and possibly without the Control and Gaming Inputs and externalmicroprocessor-based unit, provide an upgrade; transforming any piece ofexercise apparatus into an interactive, computer controlled, monitoredand audited; programmable piece of apparatus. With the added feature ofthe Handlebar System they provide an upper body exerciser too.

The integral microprocessor can read, from the memory, a trainingprogram in terms of training maps; the achieved/required speeds, rpms,resistances, zones, seating positions, etc. over time past, present orfuture and depict the required levels to the user. This may even coverrequired movements of the handlebars as part of a structured upper bodyexercise routine. In essence it provides all the exercise functionalityof the fully integrated system, i.e. in the embodiment as connected toan external microprocessor-based unit, by without the video, audio andshock feedback.

Input/Output Mapping

The above devices in combination and their links to all the input andoutput devices in my games controller can control the input/outputmapping/setting of the devices within the system, with reference totheir control lines into or out of the external microprocessor-basedunit and or their outputs'control. This can be individually or withreference to a plurality of signals from any one or more inputs, maybeaccording to comparison against target input levels, frequencies, rates,statuses, etc.

Any Game Exercise Functionality

In Any Game Exercise mode the system provides all the pure joystickfunctionality, through the Control, Gaming, System Input and ShockSimulation Output Devices, but where the inputs may be controlledthrough a user configurable system which compares actual active inputreadings with a target reading training map (saved in the integralmemory, processed by the integral microprocessor-based unit anddisplayed by the integral or external display (over or on a portion ofthe screen)) and outputs a user configurable output through whatevercontrol line(s) it is configured to control or limits the maximum inputlevels of whatever control line(s) it is configured to limit, which iswholly representative of the current achievement of actual inputs asagainst target, individually and/or in plurality cumulatively and maybeover-ridable by certain input(s), as referred to above. They system mayprovide warning systems through the integral display and speakers, orvia the graphical/aural overlay device, indicative of whether the useris behind targets, on targets (within acceptable range) or too far aheadof targets, exercising too much.

For example, if the game is a car racing game, the accelerator may beselected by simply pushing one button on a standard controller. If weare running this game, our system will compare actual inputs to thetarget and will output a static signal (i.e. accelerator full on) if weachieve all these inputs or a percentage on/off signal representative ofour cumulative achievement of all targets. The signals may be set up bythe user to eg “stop accelerating” if any one of the inputs is notperformed, e.g. cadence, so as to give full control. If the game is ashooting game, full achievement of all target inputs may control an“Autofire” command and again, e.g., not pedalling, no cadence, may stopall firing.

Voice Recognition

The voice recognition feature of my games controller works via aninternal microphone, which may communicate with eithermicroprocessor-based unit, which stores the software to perform therecognition and control functions. This device may provide analogue ordigital signals as sensed by whatever sensory means, remote or integralto the equipment or controller main body, communicated by whatevercommunication means, feeding directly or indirectly to either theexternal and integral microprocessor-based units via direct integral oradditional connections with industry standard electronics and software.It may be integrated with the equipment or removably attached bywhatever means.

This may be used to automatically load the appropriate user's settings,history, data, etc (i.e. User, Equipment and Game Data) and may be usedas a non-tactile method of controlling the input devices

Microphone

The internal microphone, which may communicate with eithermicroprocessor-based unit, picks up sounds generated by the user. Thisdevice may provide analogue or digital signals as sensed by whateversensory means, remote or integral to the equipment or controller mainbody, communicated by whatever communication means, feeding directly orindirectly to either the external and integral microprocessor-basedunits via direct integral or additional connections with industrystandard electronics and software. It may be integrated with theequipment or removably attached by whatever means.

This may be used to enable voice communications, voice-sampling, etc. ofmost benefit on remote multiplayer modes. Different users may thencommunicate aurally with each other and they may be able to hear thelevels of exertion of their opponent. This also helps provide furthersocial benefits of using the system, akin to being at a gym and may bein conjunction with the Video Device as follows.

Video Camera

The controller may further include a video camera which is adapted totake pictures of the user and transmit the images to the microprocessorbased unit. The camera may comprise a CCD device and may be mounted ontoeither the handlebar or the support.

The provision of the camera may be used to transmit images of the userfrom one microprocessor based unit to another, for example over theinternet. These pictures may then be displayed on a screen so that userscan see other users. It is envisaged that this will be especially usefulin allowing users to compete against each other using interlinkedmicroprocessor based units whilst seeing the images of the other user.

The provision of a Video Camera/Web Cam device with my games controllerworks via an integrated or attached industry standard Web Camera whichtakes digital video footage, which may communicate with eithermicroprocessor-based unit which stores the software to use the images.The data from the camera may be communicated by whatever communicationmeans, feeding directly or indirectly to either the external andintegral microprocessor-based units via direct integral or additionalconnections with industry standard electronics and software. It may beintegrated with the equipment or removably attached by whatever means.

This may be used to sample the face of the user to enable graphicaloverlay of the user's real face onto that of the simulated rider. Itenables live pictures of the user to be communicated through themicroprocessor-based unit(s) across whatever network of computers thesystem is connected to. This will enhance the interactivity,personalisation and social virtues of the system. The user may be abroadon holiday or business and could still train with his colleagues at homeor in the gym and see each other via the web cam and talk to each othervia the microphone, and internal or external speakers.

Graphical/Audio Overlay Input or Output

It is further envisaged that my controller may have audio and visualinput and or output devices, receiving signals from an external CDplayer, TV arial, Video, or whatever or sending signals thereto. Theintegral microprocessor may further accordingly provide audio/visualoverlay features whereby it can overlay the input signal its displayand/or speakers or the external display/speakers. It may also provideOverlay outpur whereby it simply overlays graphical and audible signalsover that on the users TV, etc.

Keyboard and Pointer

The controller may further provide a keyboard and or a pointer (mouse,trackball, pads, etc).

Communication

Finally, providing an integral modem and/or connection to a mobile phoneor standard line, may enable use of the system in Game Free mode overthe internet or networked in this way.

Peripheral Connections

These above devices may be communicated through the controllers outputconnector through the same lines or through additional wiring withmultiple connectors at the end connecting, for example, to the gamecontroller, microphone, a USB, keyboard and mouse inputs on a PC. A“Double Adaptor” may then be provided at each of these to enable thestandard devices for that computer to be used as normal. A manual orautomatic switch may be provided which controls which devices may beused, ie the computers normal device or the remote one proximal to theexercise unit.

Overall—All Devices, How? What?

What

The input pick-ups detect the required activity and the output devicescontrol the required activity, by connection to the controller, exerciseapparatus and the user, producing analogue or digital signals, and maybe integral or remotely connected through industry standard, or whatevermeans, representing the replacement of standard joystick, steeringwheel, or button type input devices, as per an industry standardcontroller, with the appropriate pick-ups and control devices asdisclosed herein.

How

All inputs can provide analogue, touch sensitive or digital signals bymechanical, biosensor or whatever means; switches, button switches,touch sensitive button type controls, potentiometers, photosensitiveoptical-interrupter circuits, magnetic induction detectors, magnet andreed switches, variable voltage generators, thermoresistors orpiezo-electric pressure sensitive transducers or any other type ofsensor input means. They may also be provided by connecting orcommunicating with existing sensory or control means. Outputs arediscussed further below.

With regard to the heart rate monitor system and inputs they are byindustry standard means for these devices, generally by Ear Clip, ChestBand or Hand Grip means which sense the heart rate of the user by these,or whatever, means and communicate this to a reading device, by whatevermeans, eg cable hard wiring, IR, Radio, etc. This may be a direct signalor via the “De-Coder”.

The communication methods, between the remote input and output devicesand the controller main body may be by whatever means, such as cablehard wiring, IR, Radio, etc means.

Electronics

It should be understood that the internal electronics from the inputsensors or control devices to the external microprocessor-based unit areas per the industry standard electronics, appropriate for the specificcomputer or console, or configurable internally with different outputconnector adaptors. This is not discussed further as it is well known tothose knowledgeable in the art and would be designed/configurable to beappropriate to any such microprocessor-based unit past, present orfuture.

Configurations

It should also be understood that a key feature of my games controlleris that all signals can have direct connection, through the standardinternal electronics of such controllers, to the externalmicroprocessor-based unit, and/or may be also “copied” through to theinternal microprocessor-based unit also and/or may becontrolled/connected via the internal microprocessor-based unit.

The internal microprocessor-based unit will use these readings for it'sintegral display and it may be used to override the direct connection toallow for a control input/output signal to output/input signal mappingsystem which can set the user's devices to use or control whatever,line(s) the user decides. It may also be used for a threshold-mappingsystem to take the signals from any one or a plurality of input signalsand combine them and or compare them to a certain target map to producea certain output along certain control line(s) or limiting output fromcertain control line(s), as discussed in Any Game Mode further. Theinternal microprocessor-based unit may also provide the De-Coder devicetransforming multiple inputs or single coded outputs, via coded signals,into single coded inputs or pluralities of outputs.

Physical Forms

The basic principle is the provision of the removably attachable headerunit controller main body, which generally houses the Control, Gamingand System input devices with looms and plugs connecting to the remoteinputs, connected to the equipment and user of the Active input devices.All components may of course be integrated into the equipment from new,or may be retrospectively fitted, by these example methods:

-   -   Via the bars and bracket system to the equipment with Snap On        mountings, Velcro, Tie Lock, or whatever means to connect the        Active sensors to the equipment.    -   Via handlebar grip covers and housings with Snap On mountings,        Velcro, Tie Lock, or whatever means to connect the Active        sensors to the equipment.    -   Via a basic analogue/digital controller and mounting bracket        with active input plugs and with Snap On mountings, Velcro, Tie        Lock, or whatever means to connect the Active sensors to the        equipment.

These options may be applicable to any of the different device types,not just the Active sensors, but e.g. for the Seat Control input devicesand Simulation Output Devices too. All controllers may feature a quickrelease mechanism within their connections to the equipment, i.e.relating to the Bars, Seat and Active pick-ups and cabling—all other maybe internal to the controller/seat.

Overall—Method

The User Manipulates the:

-   -   Exercise device,    -   Steer, weight, lift, seat and brake, control input devices, and    -   Gaming and system input devices,    -   While his or her body passively activate the active input        devices through the HRM system and the exercise device active        pick-ups.        The Computer Monitors the:    -   Active,    -   Control,    -   Gaming, and    -   System input devices.        The Computer and Software:

Measure/Process the inputs,in accordance with the software, “looking”for specific inputs, repeated inputs, combinations of inputs together orin sequences, etc and determines user's simulated position, velocities,accelerations, spins, forces, etc in accordance with all input signalsand a virtual simulation engine and a 3D simulated world consisting ofvirtual roads, objects, events, worlds, etc., i.e. an environment ofcompetitors, obstacles and opportunities for advancement/relegation in agaming metaphor. The software uses 3D graphics, sound and trade secretmovement sensor alogarithms and engines where not just the user'sphysical activity provides advantages but the user's technical skillswith the steering/weight/lift/controls and brakes and seat also.

The Computer Outputs:

-   -   Sound and video through the display and speakers, simulating a        route.    -   Interactive simulation and feedback, controlling the exercise        device, the control devices and the Shocks.        In Game Only Mode:

The system provides pure joystick functionality whereby, as describedfurther above, the Extra button, or a Twist Grip, may be a switch inparallel with the pedalling speed or cadence circuit which is wiredthrough the common “Fire” button of the particular system or isconfigured to do so.

In Any Game Mode:

The system provides all the pure joystick functionality but where theExtra button may not be used but is controlled through a userconfigurable system which compares actual active input readings with atarget reading training map (loaded to the integral memory, processed bythe integral microprocessor-based unit and displayed by the integral orexternal display (over or on a portion of the screen)) and outputs auser configurable output through this common “Fire” button, or whatevercontrol line(s) it is configured to control/limit, which is whollyrepresentative of the achievement of actual inputs as against target,individually and/or in plurality, as referred to above.

The training map consists of the target levels/signals that should bereceived from the active input devices mapped over a time period, i.e.what resistance setting, speed, cadence, seating position, pedalpressures, heart rates, etc should be exerted by the user over differenttime periods, varying over the whole time period in accordance with astructured training program, stored in the integral memory from anintegral program or downloaded from external. The resistance settinglevel may be as a required input or an output to therefore automaticallyadjust the resistance of the exercise device. This training program maybe stored wholly on the internal memory and/or be loaded to the internalmemory each time the system is connected, to the externalmicroprocessor-based unit, and software therein. The internal system maycommunicate with the external system to download the results and data ofthe last training session(s) or this may be by password mechanisms.

In Game Free Mode:

The integral memory will have a training map as referred to above loadedinternally and will perform all the calculations as referred to abovebut the system is being operated in totally stand alone mode. Everythingruns as per the Any Game mode except that the handlebars may be lockedas no control or game input devices may be “effective”, only the systeminput devices remain functional to control the integralmicroprocessor-based unit of the system. The map may however also depictcertain upper body exercises to be performed in this mode too, thereforeincluding a map of handlebar, seat, etc movements also. The internalmicroprocessor can then perform the same calculations as referred to inAny Game mode but instead of outputting a signal representative of thisthe display will depict how far ahead or behind the user is againsttarget cumulative and current exertion and input levels individuallyand/or in plurality.

According to a third aspect, the invention provides a programme carryingdevice such as a programme cartridge which is adapted to store programmeinstructions which when operated on a microprocessor unit produceapparatus in accordance with the first aspect of the invention.

The programme may be adapted to stimulate a sports activity such asrunning, cycling, rowing etc. on a display. The user interacts with theprogramme through the input device.

One of the main features and benefits of my games controller is that itcan be used in a variety of ways. It may be used to run bespoke exerciseor simulation software (Bespoke Exercise/Gaming) or it can be used toplay any other games (Any Game & Train), whereby the users exertions maybe combined to power the accelerator or fire commands of that game.Further, it can be purely used as a state of the art games controller(Game Only), as per the first aspect overall. It is the input/outputstructure of my games controller, along with the internalmicroprocessor-based unit for additional features, which makes theseoptions possible.

Game Only

The game only functionality of my games controller is provided by mycontroller being a I/O controller in its most basic form, as describedfully earlier. As childhood obesity is such a problem, this modeprovides a unique opportunity for parents to demonstrate and forchildren to get used to and enjoy the system so that it may encouragefull use with exercise. It also provides for better value for money dueto this multi functionality. In this mode the system is a pure gamescontroller that has the benefit of real input mechanisms, like thesteering wheel type controllers available for most platforms, and astable base, unlike most games controllers. This provides for exercisefree training at the technical side of the cycle game.

In the embodiment disclosed in the drawings, the EXTRA analogue/digitalor touch sensitive button may be readily used for game only mode. Thiswould, for example, take the cadence or speed circuit, or whatevercircuit it is configured to, and gives this circuit full manual controlthrough this button which would commonly be or be set up to be theaccelerator/fire/etc. button, without needing the user to exercise. Itis also disclosed that this may be attachably replaced or complementedwith a twist grip as detailed above which would give added functionalityby more accurate analogue accelerator control, especially thosedepicting motorcycle, jet ski, skidoo, etc racing.

Bespoke Exercise/Gaming

Structured training programmes can be structured through the software inthe form of different game levels as per a standard game and playedthrough the normal methods of game progression, whereby progression tofurther levels is only possible of successful completion of allpreceding levels. The user may start very basic level, which may bestructured as a very basic exercise routine applicable for those whohave not exercised in a long period of time. The display will depict abasic course for the users to successfully negotiate and an opponent forthe user to beat. The user will only be able to progress by successfullybeating this simulated opponent, who will also act as a tour guide and apacesetter.

This ensures that people do not go straight into an exercise routineabove their level of fitness and the structure will progress throughharder levels, including greater resistances, durations, technicalstages, etc in accordance with a professionally structured trainingprogram, potentially adjusted for the user's objectives, age, sex, etcwhich are entered before commencing. This provides greater challenges,and therefore satisfaction on completion, for users rather than theprior arts'heart rate zone only style training which really onlyrepresents a pure exercise routine with interactive controls fordistractionary purposes.

During the program the system may be set up to purely monitor the usersheart rate for data and monitoring purposes and/or may be linked to aprogram and/or system warning, shut down or pause routine if the heartrate exceeds safe limits and/or may vary the exercise programme withregard to the user's heart rate. The software may be written so as toprovide aural and/or written instructions and encouragement to the user.The software may also be written so as to drop the user back a number oflevels if the user has not exercised on the apparatus for a period oftime.

As discussed, the software and HRM may run an initial grading andclassification programme to estimate the fitness level of the user inaccordance with their profile, as input by the user. This programme thenadjusts the intensities and durations of the courses and speed ofpersonal trainer “opponents” to set customised realistic goals andmilestones.

The training programme includes such an algorithm which uses thisfitness level as a base for the structure of each game level. Manydifferent courses may be provided with the software. These courses maybe divided up into sections, perhaps of different, maybe increasing,technical or exertive requirements or may be any course simply dividedinto sections. This is common on many games for “Section Times”. Inaccordance with the user's preferences, training history, fitness levelindex, etc and in accordance with the generally accepted trainingprinciples, the algorithm includes a progressive exercise feature. Thissets the users required physical exertions over each exercise session toprovide a level of such duration, length and intensities as to representa personalised training programme for the user. The algorithm then setsa course of such durations and intensities and also sets the requiredcompletion times and or pace of opponents.

This therefore sets out a target set of readings that should be input bythe user over the course, ie what cadences and/or speeds, seatingpositions, resistance settings (to be received or control) and any otherreadings as may be required, should the user perform to ensure they canprogress (in fitness terms). Only on successful completion of the coursedoes the user progress to the next “game” (i.e. fitness) level. On topof this will be the normal gaming requirements whereby the user mustsuccessfully navigate the course. If the user goes off the course theywill be slowed down which may inhibit them from completing the course inthe required time, gameplay advancement. The algorithm has a featurewhereby it drops the user back in fitness level as a function of thetime since the last training session was performed. The algorithm mayalso provide such a static, warm up or warm down routine within which itmay further perform a fitness grading to provide real time fitnessassessment. This may be based on a heart rate recovery or resting heartrate basis.

The simulated course may be designed so as to ensure the successfulnegotiation thereof will require a certain number of repetitions oftwists, pulls, leans, etc and stretches of the upper body to control thehandlebar system and therefore provide for a structured and progressiveupper body strength and flexibility training program also.

The Processor may provide a trainer, competitor rider, or icon in theintegral system, who may stay just ahead to entice/motivate the user andbe a tour guide but mainly sets the pace in accordance with the trainingprogram, which may be to keep the user in the target heart rate zone orbe a straight forward challenge whereby the competitor's pace is set forthe user to beat to enable fitness and game level progression, asdiscussed earlier. They also therefore have the motivational benefits ofa leader, a class and the safety factor of constant heart ratemonitoring.

Users will have the customised set training program for them to completewhich they know is structured and approved by those qualified to do so,not therefore progressing at what they think their pace should be andnot also limited to within certain heart rate zones, etc. This is in theeasy to understand guise of a video-game race. Users need not be fitnessexperts. Their training sessions are updated in real timeprofessionally. Combining this customised physical training plan withsuch a complete control, exercise and gaming device gives the user theperception that each goal was achieved through both physical and mentaleffort. Each session has a target, winning. The user is being pushed tothe line for each goal providing an unprecedented and magnified sense ofachievement for each and every exercise session. This creates, for thefirst time in the fitness industry, a real time motivation and a thirstfor more, addiction coming through the buzz of accomplishment. Not justis aerobic ability being improved, but strength, flexibility andphysical and mental agility too.

The software may also be written to display prompts to the user, and/orvideo sequences, with instructions, of non-machine warm up exercises andstretches, etc to perform before attempting the level and the requiredwarm down exercises and stretches also. It may also display promptsand/or video sequences, with instructions, of specific handlebar/seatexercises as bespoke strength and flexibility training.

The user may be required to enter that they have properly performedthese exercises and the software may only allow this after the requiredtime to complete these has elapsed so that the user cannot simply say,“OK”. Software may also be written which displays thestrength/flexibility exercise to be performed on the unit's bars, seat,etc and may use the readings from these devices to measure performanceof these exercises, comparing progression, etc and perhaps depicting asimulated weight lifting competition or strength training class.

In a manually controlled resistance embodiment of my games controller,the

Resistance Setting Reader device as described above will enable thesystem to audit the proper adjustment of resistance by the user to allowprogression by strict training requirements. This may be used by thecomputer to note a failure or by it affecting the possibility ofprogression by changing simulated gears, therefore adjusting the speed,of the simulated user in the simulated world. For example, if thedisplay instructs the user to increase resistance for the depictedapproaching hill, if the user does so, the speed of the simulated userwill be the purely dependent on their continued speed/cadence; if theuser does not increase the resistance, the speed of the simulated userwill be decreased to offset this failure, simulating that the userselected a lower gear on the simulated bicycle to ascend the hill.Obviously lower speed may prevent the user from completing the level,beating the opponent and advancing.

As discussed earlier, the user may chose to exercise in zone trainingmode, whereby the program responds to their heart rate. The advantage ofmy games controller is that it does not make this mandatory nor presetand it provides for enhanced measurement of personal zones by the systemrather than the inexperienced user.

To satisfy a wide range of exercisers and to make for broad ranges ofexperiences the current system provides for the software to be developedproviding different software for different activities, general diskswith option screens to set u the user, equipment and game level profilesor “drive through options” on the display, this may be the warm up.

Game Free or Any Game and Exercise

The controller may further provide internally integrated inputs and acombination of internal microprocessor-based unit, memory and display aswell as all being linked to the external microprocessor-based unit.Including its own memory, microprocessor-based unit and display andspeaker means allows for use of the interactive system, not only as aninput/output controller for a computer/games console, but also as astand alone interactive exercise computer. It is also provided to enablean enhanced Any Game mode of training whereby the user exercises as pertheir training programme but while playing any game whatsoever. In thismode the users training session requirements, and achievement levelsthereof, may be used to govern the systems inputs or input levels to theexternal microprocessor, sending a signal along a preset/user selectedoutput line, or limiting levels available, representative of the levelof achievement of any one or more or all exercise readings as againsttarget.

Game Free Exercise

The integral microprocessor can read, from the memory, a trainingprogram in terms of training maps; the achieved/required speeds, rpms,resistances, zones, seating positions, etc. over time past, present orfuture and depict the required levels to the user. This may even coverrequired movements of the handlebars as part of a structured upper bodyexercise routine. In essence it provides all the exercise functionalityof the fully integrated system, i.e. in the embodiment as connected toan external microprocessor, but without the video, audio and shockfeedback.

The internal memory may be the only memory available where the user isusing the system in Game Free mode to upgrade their exercise equipmentto being a computer controlled and monitored piece of exerciseequipment. The inbuilt training programs may be provided by the inbuiltmemory and/or memory cards attachable to the systems circuitry, read bythe integral microprocessor-based unit, and displayed/sounded as targetsor controlled as settings, which then reads the Input Devices,calculates actual performance, compares this to actual performance,calculates current and cumulative variances, and displays this to theuser. This session can therefore be in accordance and under progressionof their personal programme.

In this embodiment, the user will not need the full computing power todisplay magical graphics and sounds, but only to store in memory thecurrent, and possibly future and past, training programs and data, interms of the required/achieved input levels from the input devicesmapped over the training program's duration, in terms of theirapplication and/or levels of exertions and possibly the resistancesettings of the equipment. The internal microprocessor-based unit cantherefore control and audit the training program as a stand-alone systemand can link to the external microprocessor-based unit and update thisdata and/or download data.

This can be easily achieved with current microprocessor-based units costeffectively as the integrated system is purely an exercise computer,signalling the user as to target inputs and comparing the users actualexertions to these targets, if the user wants the full graphics/soundand controllability they simply connect up to their computer/gamesconsole. None of the prior art has this ability as they are all either acomplete integrated interactive exercise system which has an integralbespoke computer system performing all exercise computing and thegraphics, sound, etc or they are simply a link to an external computer,generally via an internal threshold device.

This is of considerable benefit to the user as it essentially convertsany exercise bicycle or stationary bicycle coupled with a turbo trainerto a fully integrated, computer-controlled and monitored exercisebicycle/trainer; giving all the benefits of the programmability, memory,structured training and monitoring to such equipment along with theadded functionality of it being connectable to any external computer totrain along with full interactive video and sound and the means fortechnical training. This provides for those times the user may wish tosimply watch TV or a video, for instance, while exercising, but stillthrough their programme.

Input/Output Mapping

The above devices in combination and their links to all the input andoutput devices in my games controller can control the input/outputmapping/setting of the devices within the system, with reference totheir control lines into or out of the external microprocessor-basedunit and or their outputs'control. This can be individually or withreference to a plurality of signals from any one or more inputs, maybeaccording to comparison against target input levels, frequencies, rates,statuses, etc.

Any Game Exercise

Further provided by the internal microprocessor and supporting means isthe option to train through the user's current training program butwhile playing some other game. In Any Game Exercise mode the systemprovides all the pure joystick functionality, through the Control,Gaming, System Input and Shock Simulation Output Devices, but where theinputs may be controlled through a user configurable system whichcompares actual active input readings with a target reading training map(saved in the integral memory, processed by the integralmicroprocessor-based unit and displayed by the integral or externaldisplay (over or on a portion of the screen)) and outputs a userconfigurable output through whatever control line(s) it is configured tocontrol or limits the maximum input levels of whatever control line(s)it is configured to limit, which is wholly representative of the currentachievement of actual inputs as against target, individually and/or inplurality cumulatively and maybe over-ridable by certain input(s), asreferred to above.

The integral memory of my games controller stores all the user andequipment's settings, preferences, etc but also stores the full or nextlevel(s) they must complete in terms of a training map for each of therequired inputs—e.g., speed, cadence, resistance, heart rate, on seat,etc. Here we are totally focused on using the exercise equipment topower the vehicle/character/guns or whatever (perhaps steering ability)of whatever game we choose to play.

The control, system and game functions of my games controller will alloperate as normal directional controls/buttons, etc in accordance with apreset or user definable input/output relationship. The integralmicroprocessor-based unit will read the memory and will display therequired exertion/activity levels for the user and an integral soundermay warn of changes. This may be done via the graphical/aural overlaysystem.

The training map consists of the target levels/signals that should bereceived from the active input devices mapped over a time period, i.e.what resistance settings, speeds, cadences, seating positions, pedalpressures, heart rates, etc should be exerted by the user over differenttime periods, varying over the whole time period in accordance with astructured training program. This is discussed further above. Thistraining program may be stored wholly on the internal memory and/or beloaded to the internal memory each time the system is connected to theexternal microprocessor-based unit, and software therein. The resistancesetting level may be as a required input or an integral output totherefore automatically adjust the resistance of the exercise device.The internal system may communicate with the external system to downloadthe results of the last training session or this may be by passwordmechanisms.

The microprocessor-based unit will read the signals from all the activeinput devices and will compare actual to target. Themicroprocessor-based unit will then output a signal along a preset/userselected output line, or limit such signal levels available,representative of the level of achievement of any one or more or all.

This enables use of the device to control any game what so ever butwhile still training through the user's set training program where theuser's attainment against targets affects their ability to control thatgame in a user configurable representative manner, specifically allowinginput signals proportionate to the proportionate achievement of targets.

As an example, if using the controller in Any Game Exercise mode for usewith any motorbike game, the steering, brakes, etc would function fromthe Control Input Devices, the Gear Selector may be used to controlsimulated gears but the throttle input to the game may be controlled bya threshold device, a program running in the integralmicroprocessor-based unit. This threshold device will only give fullthrottle to the throttle control line if the user is exercising at theappropriate speed and cadence, within the appropriate zone, in theappropriate resistance setting and seating position measured inreal-time as against the stored target per the training program. It mayculminate the percentage attainment of these targets together wholly orby whatever weighting methods, to therefore provide an input or controlover inputs proportionate to the success rate, i.e. percentage of fullthrottle equals percentage actuals versus targets. The device may havecadence as a prime factor such that if the user wants to stopaccelerating in the game they may stop pedalling only. If this was ashooting game, the speed of fire or movements or level of control inputmay be proportionate in this way, therefore to achieve full rates offire, speed of movements, etc the user must be achieving all thetargets. If this was a first person game, this system may limit themaximum movement/directional control and gaming inputs, along theanalogue input from these mechanisms, as a direct proportionate successrate of exercise.

They system may provide warning systems through the integral display andspeakers, or via the graphical/aural overlay device, indicative ofwhether the user is behind targets, on targets (within acceptable range)or too far ahead of targets, exercising too much.

Synchronisation

The integrated system will also be able to write the results and ortraining data from such a Game Free or Any Game session (not using thebespoke training software) to its internal memory or it may provide someform of password, to be entered. Its memory may be able to communicatewith the external microprocessor to upload this data to the externalmicroprocessor and memory means and possibly download further trainingprogramme maps. This allows this training session to be updated to theexternal software the next time it is connected or via the passwords.

In accordance with a further aspect, the invention provides a controlleraccording to any preceding claim which includes a microprocessor, inputmeans and a display which is adapted to enable user configuration of thefunctional relationships of the controllers input and output devices toand from the inputs and outputs available with regard to the externalmicroprocessor-based unit.

There will now be described, by way of example only, one embodiment ofthe present invention with reference to the accompanying drawings ofwhich:

FIG. 1 is an illustration of a complete game/exercise apparatus inaccordance with a first aspect of the invention;

FIG. 2 is a first side view of the controller and its input devices asconnected to an exercise apparatus;

FIG. 3 is an alternative view of the apparatus of FIG. 2 illustrating inparticular the location of the active input devices;

FIG. 4 is an alternative view to that of FIG. 2 illustrating thelocation of the control input devices;

FIG. 5 is an alternative view to that of FIG. 2 illustrating thelocation of the system input devices on the exercise apparatus; and

FIG. 6 is a still further alternative view to that of FIG. 2illustrating the location of the output (simulation) devices.

The embodiment of the invention illustrated in FIG. 1 of theaccompanying drawings comprises a complete gaming and exercise apparatus1. It includes a controller 2 that can be used to supply signals 3 to amicroprocessor based unit 4 such as a games console The controller 2includes a number of input devices 5 that produce signals for themicroprocessor based unit 4 and which form a part of or are attached toa handlebar assembly 6. It also includes a number of further inputdevices 7 that are operatively connected through the handlebar assembly4 to supply signals to the controller 2, such as a cadence sensor.

FIG. 1 of the accompanying drawings also illustrates the connection ofthe controller into a gaming apparatus which in essence comprises:

-   1) a games console 4, such as the Sony Playstation,-   2) a display screen 5 which receives an output signal from the    console in a known manner,-   3) an exercise bicycle (not shown) to which the handlebars can    optionally be attached;-   4) the controller comprising a set of input devices in the form of    various switches, sensors and actuators of providing input signals    to the console;-   5) a programme cartridge 8 which contains programme instructions for    the console; and-   6) a memory 9 for storing settings and other data.

The controller which is attached to the stationary exercise bicycle ismodified to act as a way of inputting information to the games consolepertaining to the physical activity of the user. Normally, consoles 4are used to play games by pressing one or more buttons on an inputdevice. For example, one button may be pressed to indicate that the userwishes to “turn right” whilst another is pressed to indicate a wish to“turn left”. The buttons normally provide a single on/off signal.Indeed, all consoles are designed to receive at least one such signal inorder to allow the user to interact with the game and provideinstructions to the processor within the console.

The controller of FIG. 1 does not simply comprise a hand held pad withon-off buttons as is usual in the art. It is shown in more detail asconnected to an exercise bicycle in FIG. 2 of the accompanying drawings.

The controller includes a handlebar assembly 6, a saddle assembly 90 andvarious other input devices to attach to parts of the bicycle. Thehandlebar assembly 6 consists of a pair of handlebars 10 connected to asupport 11 for relative movement about the support 11. This connectionis through three hinges 12,13,14 permitting a full range of movement inthree dimensions.

One hinge 13 allows the handlebars to be rotated relative to the supportand hence the bicycle to which they are attached. Another hinge 14permits the handlebars to be rocked from side to side (i.e. a yawaction) as if the bike was being tilted. The other hinge 12 allows thehandlebars 10 to move relative to the support if the user pulls up orpushes down on the handlebars.

Three springs (not shown) provide resistance against movement about thehinges, and an adjustment device (also not shown) allows the springtension and hence resistance to movement to be varied. The springs maybias the handlebars into a normal, rest, position when no force isexerted upon them by a user.

The handlebar assembly includes a wiring loom (not shown) which runsthrough the handlebars 10. One end of the loom terminates in a connector15 for attachment of a cable to pass input signals to the console 4. Theother end of each of the wires in the looms goes to one or more of theinput devices which are attached to the handlebar assembly. Other wiresof the loom terminate in connectors which allow other input devices thatare not directly attached to the handlebars to pass signals.

The handlebar assembly also includes two brake levers 16,17.

The input devices of the controller in the illustrated embodiment aremore clearly illustrated in FIGS. 3 to 10 of the accompanying drawings.They comprise a variety of switches, sensors and other units variouslyconnected to parts of the exercise bicycle. The function of the switchesis as follows:

A first input sensor 20 is connected to the bicycle 100 in such a way asto detect revolution of the wheel 101 of the bicycle. In practice, wherea user's bike is connected to a trainer (often referred to as rollers ora turbo trainer) this will be the rear (driven) wheel. As shown in theillustrated embodiment, the cycle 100 is actually a dedicated stationarycycle and it is the front wheel 101 that is driven in order to make theassembly more compact.

The wheel revolution sensor 20 comprises a wheel switch that detects thepassing of a magnet attached to the wheel. It produces a pulsed signalthat is fed through wire(s) to the wiring loom of the handlebarassembly. The signal cam then be passed on to the microprocessor.

A second input sensor 21, similar to the wheel revolution sensor 20comprises a reed switch that detects the passing of a pedal crank 102 ofthe bicycle 100 carrying a magnet. This produces a pulsed outputindicative of pedal cadence. Again, this may be mounted to the exercisecycle remote from the handlebars and connect to the handlebars throughwire(s)(not shown for clarity).

A third input sensor 22 comprises a pressure sensitive switch whichdetects whether or not a user's weight is over the saddle. This is inthe form of a pressure sensitive switch that forms a part of a saddlecover that can be placed over a saddle. This input device produces asignal which is passed through wires to the handlebar assembly to signalwhen the user is seated or when standing over the pedals (or viceversa).

A fourth input sensor comprises a heart rate monitor 23 which producesan output indicative of the user's heart rate. As activity level isincreased the heart rate increases.

Finally a fifth input sensor 24 comprises a gear selection or resistanceload sensor. It provides an input signal dependent upon the position ofa multi-position switch. The switch is adapted to be moved by the useras the gear is changed and/or the machine resistance is increased.

These five input devices 20,21,22,23 and 24 provide signals responsiveto the movement of the user when performing the sports activity (i.e.responsive to how fast he/she pedals, the gear they select, the speed ofthe wheels and the user's heart rate). They are termed “active inputs”.

These “active” inputs pass signals through the handlebar assembly thatare used by a programme running on the microprocessor so that changes inthe input signals change the behaviour of the programme. For instance,the display may show a bicycle on a road. As the pedal rate increasesthe programme provides signals to the display to show that the bicycleon the display speeds up.

By controlling the programme in such an active way, the programme isinfluenced by the level of activity of the user. This provides anincentive to the user to increase his/her activity levels or to maintainthe levels within boundaries set by the display.

As well as the active inputs, the controller includes input devicedefining eight control inputs. These are not responsive to physicalactivity in terms of strength (as is pedal rate/heart rate) but insteadto skills of the user when performing the exercise.

The control inputs are best seen in FIG. 4 of the accompanying drawings.

The control inputs comprise a left turn input sensor associated andright turn input sensor, sensors detecting the shifting of the user'sweight on the bicycle, and sensors detecting application of the brakes.These detect movement of the handlebars about the three degrees ofmovement and also movement of the brake levers.

The left/right turn sensors 31,32 detect when the user moves thehandlebars to request a turn. An analogue movement detector such as arheostat detects movement of the handlebars relative to the frame. Inpractice, the handlebars connect to the frame through a stem whichrotates. Aligning the axis of rotation of a rheostat with the stem axismeans that an analogue output is produced indicating bar position.

A sensor 33 to detect weight shift can be provided in the form of afurther rheostat that detects upwards/downwards movement of thehandlebars. The handlebars may therefore be supported relative to theframe by a pivoting link that pivots about a horizontal axis. A springresistance may be provided to bias the bars into a rest position when noweight is applied. As weight is applied the bars move and the inputsignal varies with it.

To detect application of the brakes, a sensor 34,35 is associated witheach brake lever attached to the handlebars. Each sensor produces ananalogue output which varies as the displacement of the brake leversfrom rest increases. The output signal is adapted to increase in astepped fashion at lest over its initial range of movement to simulatethe effect of taking up slack in the system. A progressive resistanceagainst movement of the lever is provided that simulates the feel oftaking up the slack. It may also simulate the difference in feelperceived between the initial movement of the brakes and the contact ofthe brakes with the wheel.

The control inputs 30,31,32,33,34,35 to the microprocessor are used tocontrol the programme in turn to alter the display. For instance, as thebrakes are applied, the display may show a bicycle which slows down. Ifthe brakes are applied too hard the bicycle shown on the screen mayskid.

In this manner, the skills of the exerciser can be tested andincorporated into the operation of the programme. Again, this helps torelieve the monotony associated with use of the system.

As well as the active and control inputs, a further set of input devicesare provided which generate game inputs. These allow the user toinstruct the programme to show a cycle performing various tricks, suchas jumps and wheelies. These may comprise switches 41-47 that arelocated within easy reach of the user, for example on the handlebars asshown. They are best seen in FIG. 5 of the accompanying drawings. Thefunction allocated to each switch may be varied under software control.

Finally, the system includes a number of output devices as shown best inFIG. 6 of the accompanying drawings. These devices comprise actuatorswhich receive signals output from the programmable unit and which movethe exercise device to simulate movement over rough terrain or drivingduring heavy braking.

A front shock actuator 50 is provided which controls the height of thehandlebars, and a rear shock actuator 51 is provided which controls theheight of the saddle. The programme instructs the actuators to move thehandlebars or saddle as appropriate depending upon what is shown on thedisplay.

For example, if the programme is displaying a cycle passing over anobstacle, the actuators may be energised to move the bars and/or saddleto simulate crossing the obstacle.

Each actuator is fed from a signal reader and a converter which connectsthe signal into instructions that are fed to the actuator. Typically,the programmable unit supplies pulsed coded signals that are interpretedby the converter to drive the actuator(s).

A further pair of actuators 52,53 may be adapted to vibrate the barsand/or saddle to simulate brake judder.

Also, the exercise cycle includes means 54 for increasing the pedalresistance. In the embodiment shown, the pedals drive a flywheel througha chain. Pads or friction material grab opposing sides of the flywheelto provide resistance. The force with which they grab the flywheel canbe increased to make resistance to pedalling higher or decreased to makethe resistance lower by moving an actuator. This actuator is controlledby pulsed signals from the programmable unit. This allows the resistanceto be increased if the display shows the bicycle to be going uphill.

An output device 55 in the form of a flywheel is also provided to givefeel to the handlebar movement that simulates the effect of inertia on abicycle.

Finally, as shown, further (optional) controls are provided to produceany additional instructions to the programmable unit (i.e. startprogramme/pause programme/stop programme).

The input devices connect to the console 4 in place of a standardcontrol pad. Each switch or sensor replaces a switch/paddle/button orjoystick on a standard input game pad or controller. Thus, nomodification of an existing console is needed other than the provisionof appropriate programmes.

It is envisaged that two types of programme are provided. In a firsttype, the active inputs control movement of images on the display suchas the speed of a bicycle along a simulated road or track. The directionof the bicycle may be controlled by applying force to the handlebars.This allows racing both against other simulated riders and/or againstthe clock to be simulated. One or more units may be linked together, forinstance using the internet, to allow riders to compete against eachother.

In another, a structured training programme may be provided. Theprogramme sets targets for the rider to achieve, such as completing asimulated race or course in a given time limit, or at a given resistancesetting. The structure of the training programme may be such as toincrease the level of fitness needed to complete subsequent stages andonly allow the user to attempt the subsequent stages once earlier stageshave been satisfactorily completed.

The handlebar controller 2 may be used to provide an interface between auser and a game simulation for a cycling game, although it may also beused to control other games such as motorcycle simulations or perhapseven hangliding. It may be used on its own without an exercise apparatusas a pure controller and it is envisaged that this may be useful in awide range of applications other than gaming as a control device.

It is envisaged that as well as providing control for leisure games runon a microprocessor the controller may be used to great effect as aninput device for controlling a program adapted to assist in arehabilitation program. For instance, the program may ask the user toperform a range of exercise tasks which it can then monitor through thesignals output by the controller. A progressive training program canthen be implemented with feedback available about the users improvementsover time. Such a scheme, may , it is envisaged, be especially usefulfor users who are trying to recover fitness or movement after an illnessor accident.

1. Apparatus comprising a combination of a controller and amicroprocessor based units, the apparatus comprising; a programmablemicroprocessor-based unit including a receiving means adapted to receivesignals from a programmable cartridge or other programme storage devicethat provides programme instructions for controlling the operation ofthe programmable microprocessor-based unit; an output through whichoutput signals can be passed from the microprocessor to a display; adisplay arranged to display images dependent upon the signals from themicroprocessor-based unit; an exercise apparatus adapted to allow a userto perform a range of movements associated with a sport; and acontroller comprising a handlebar assembly which can be held by a user,a first input device responsive to movement of the handlebar whichgenerates input signals for supply to the microprocessor-based unit, asaddle which can be sat upon by the user, and a second input devicewhich is responsive to the force applied to the saddle by said user soas to indicate whether or not the user is seated on said saddle, saidsecond input device also generates input signals for supply to themicrocontroller, and in which the first input signal and the secondinput signal modify the operation of the programme running on themicroprocessor in turn to modify the images displayed on the display. 2.A combination of a controller and a microprocessor-based unit, saidcontroller comprising: a handlebar assembly which can be held by a userand which includes at least one input device adapted to generate inputsignals for supply to a microprocessor-based unit, at least one of saidat least one input device being responsive to movement of said handlebarassembly by said user, wherein said handlebar assembly comprises ahandlebar rotably attached to a handlebar support, such that saidhandlebar may rotate relative to said handlebar support about threeperpendicular axes.
 3. A combination according to claim 1 wherein saidhandlebar assembly comprises a handlebar rotably attached to a handlebarsupport, such that said handlebar may rotate relative to said supportabout three perpendicular axes, and further wherein said handlebar canbe translated relative to said support in at least one direction.
 4. Acombination according to claim 3 wherein said handlebar can translaterelative to said support in two orthogonal directions.
 5. A combinationaccording to claim 4 wherein said handlebar can translate relative tosaid support in three orthogonal directions.
 6. A combination accordingclaim 2 wherein said handlebar can rotate through 360 degrees relativeto said support.
 7. A combination according to claim 2 wherein saidhandlebar assembly includes a resistance means which is adapted tooppose the movement of said handlebar relative to said support about atleast one of the available degrees of freedom.
 8. A combinationaccording to claim 7 wherein a respective resistance means is providedwhich is associated with each rotation about each of said threeperpendicular axes.
 9. A combination according to claim 7 in which saidhandlebar, in use, returns to a self-centre position under the action ofsaid resistance means.
 10. A combination according to claim 7 wherein adamping means is associated with said resistance means.
 11. Acombination according to claim 1 which further includes at least oneactuator which causes movement of said handlebar assembly in response tosignals from at least one of said input devices and from saidmicroprocessor-based unit.
 12. A combination according to claim 1wherein said seat comprises a cover which includes said at least oneadditional input device and which fits onto an existing seat.
 13. Acombination according to claim 1 wherein said seat is supported by afirst portion of a support which is adapted to rotate relative to asecond portion of said support, and in which a seat input device isprovided which is responsive to rotation of the first portion of thesupport relative to said second portion.
 14. A combination according toclaim 1 wherein said seat is supported by a first portion of a supportwhich is at least one of compressible and extendible relative to asecond portion of said support, and in which a seat input device isprovided which is responsive to movement of said first portion of saidsupport relative to said second portion.
 15. A combination according toclaim 15 wherein said second portion comprises a tube which fits withina seatpost of at least one of a bicycle and an exercise bicycle.
 16. Acombination according to claim 1 which further includes at least oneactuator which is adapted to cause movement of said seat in response tosignals from at least one of said input devices and from themicroprocessor-based unit.
 17. A combination according to claim 1 whichfurther includes at least one actuator which is adapted to causemovement of said handlebar assembly or an external supporting means inresponse to signals from at least one of said input devices and fromsaid microprocessor-based unit.
 18. A combination according to claim 1which further includes a variable speed electric fan which is adapted tochange speed in response to signals from at least one of said inputdevices and from said microprocessor-based unit.
 19. A combinationaccording to claim 1 wherein at least one foot operated input device isprovided, said at least one foot operated input device comprising atleast one pressure sensitive device.
 20. A combination according toclaim 1 wherein at least one hand operated input device is provided,said at least one hand operated device comprising at least one pressuresensitive device to sense said user's hands on handlebar grips of saidhandlebar assembly.
 21. A combination according to claim 1 in which oneof said input devices is attached to or forms an integral part of saidhandlebar assembly.
 22. A combination according to claim 1 in which saidhandlebar assembly comprises a set of handlebars attached to a handlebarsupport so that said handlebars can move relative to said handlebarsupport.
 23. A combination according to claim 22 wherein at least one ofsaid input devices produces an output signal responsive to relativemovement between said handlebar and said handlebar support.
 24. Acombination according to claim 22 wherein said handlebar assembly maymove with at least one degree of freedom and includes at least one of aresistance and a damping means which provide at least one of aresistance and a damping to movement of said handlebars relative to saidhandlebar support about any of said at least one degrees of freedom. 25.A combination according to claim 24 wherein at least one of saidresistance and said damping is adjustable by said user.
 26. Acombination according to claim 24 wherein at least one of saidresistance and said damping means is adjusted automatically in responseto signals generated by said input devices or by said microprocessorunit.
 27. A combination according to claim 1 wherein at least one of ahandlebar lock and a seat lock are provided for locking said handlebaror said seat assembly in place against movement about one of saiddegrees of freedom.
 28. A combination according to claim 1 wherein saidhandlebar assembly further includes at least one lever which can beoperated by said user, said at least one lever producing a respectiveinput signal dependent upon a position of said at least one lever.
 29. Acombination according to claim 1 wherein said handlebar assembly furtherincludes at least one rotable grip which can be operated by said user,said at least one rotable grip producing a respective input signaldependent upon a position of said at least one rotable grip.
 30. Acombination according to claim 28 wherein said handlebar assemblyfurther includes at least one gear lever which can be operated by atleast one of a hand and a foot of said user, said at least one gearlever producing a respective input signal dependent upon a position ofsaid at least one gear lever.
 31. A combination according to claim 1wherein said handlebar assembly includes a wiring loom which includes atleast one connector to which at least one additional input device may beattached.
 32. A combination according to claim 1 which includes a videocamera which captures images of said user and transmits said images tosaid microprocessor-based unit.
 33. A combination according to claim 1which includes a microphone which detects sounds made by said user andtransmits said sounds to said microprocessor-based unit.
 34. Acombination according to claim 1 in which the microprocessor is adaptedto enable user configuration of functional relationships of input andoutput devices of said controller to and from inputs and outputsavailable with regard to said microprocessor-based unit.